Hindu-Review-March-2024 Adda

Current Affairs | March 2024
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Contents
The Most Important Current Affairs March 2024.............................................................................................. 3
Banking and Financial Current Affairs ............................................................................................................... 7
Economy Current Affairs ................................................................................................................................... 9
Business Current Affairs .................................................................................................................................. 11
International Current Affairs ........................................................................................................................... 13
National Current Affairs .................................................................................................................................. 15
States Current Affairs ...................................................................................................................................... 18
Schemes and Committees ............................................................................................................................... 21
Agreement/Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)...................................................................................... 22
New Appointments: International .................................................................................................................. 24
Sports Current Affairs ..................................................................................................................................... 26
Summits And Conferences .............................................................................................................................. 27
Ranks and Reports News................................................................................................................................. 28
Important Days ............................................................................................................................................... 29
Defence Current Affairs .................................................................................................................................. 29
Awards News .................................................................................................................................................. 31
Science and Technology .................................................................................................................................. 32
Books & Authors ............................................................................................................................................. 34
Miscellaneous Current Affairs ......................................................................................................................... 34
Obituaries Current Affairs ............................................................................................................................... 35
Static Current Affairs ....................................................................................................................................... 36

The Most Important Current Affairs March 2024
PM Narendra Modi Presents National Creators Award Triumph of Creativity at the National Creators Award
The winners, including three international creators, were
Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented the first-ever
National Creators Award at the Bharat Mandapam in New selected from over 1.5 lakh nominations, highlighting the
Delhi. The event marked a significant milestone in recognizing extensive reach and impact of their work. The National Creators
and celebrating creators who have made impactful Award serves as a testament to the power of creativity in
contributions across various domains. driving positive change and inspiring millions around the world.
Awards span 20 categories including storytelling, and social
change Oscars 2024 Announced, Check Full List of Winners
The National Creators Award encompasses 20 categories,
The Oscars 2024 ceremony took place at the Dolby Theater in
highlighting the diversity and depth of creativity across different
Los Angeles, with Jimmy Kimmel hosting for the fourth time.
fields. From storytelling to social change advocacy,
environmental sustainability to education, and gaming among The film “Oppenheimer” emerged as the big winner, earning 13
others, the awards aim to acknowledge excellence and nominations and taking home prestigious awards, including
innovation that drives positive change in society. Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Picture.
Cillian Murphy’s performance in the title role of “Oppenheimer”
Several social media influencers receive awards
earned him the Best Actor award, continuing his successful run
Among the recipients of the National Creators Award were
notable social media influencers who have captivated after winning similar honors at other major award shows like
audiences with their content and message. Prime Minister Modi the Golden Globes, BAFTAs, and Screen Actors Guild Awards.
presented awards to individuals who have made significant The film “Poor Things” also had a notable presence, winning
contributions in their respective fields, inspiring millions with awards in the categories of Hair and Makeup, Production
their creativity and vision. Here is the list of winners: Design, and Costume Design.
Winner Award The Malayalam film “Everyone is a Hero” (2023), which was
Jaya Kishori Best Creator for Social Change chosen as India’s official entry for the International Feature Film
Kabita Singh (Kabita’s category at the 2024 Academy Awards, has been eliminated
Best Creator in Food Category from the Oscars race. Despite being the country’s
Kitchen)
Drew Hicks Best International Creator representative, the film did not make it to the final shortlist of
Kamiya Jani Favourite Travel Creator nominations in that category.
Ranveer Allahbadia Oscars 2024 Announced, Check Full List of Winners
Disruptor of the Year
(BeerBiceps)
The film “Oppenheimer” had a triumphant night at the 96th
RJ Raunac (Bauaa) Most Creative Creator-Male
Academy Awards, securing a remarkable seven Oscars,
Shraddha Jain Most Creative Creator (Female) including some of the most prestigious categories.
Aridaman Best Micro Creator
Nishchay Best Creator in Gaming Category
Ankit Baiyanpuria Best Health and Fitness Creator
Best Creator in Education
Naman Deshmukh
Category
Jahnvi Singh Heritage Fashion Icon
Malhar Kalambe Swachhta Ambassador
Gaurav Chaudhary Best Creator in Tech Category
Maithili Thakur Cultural Ambassador of The Year
Pankhti Pandey Favourite Green Champion
Keerthika Govindasamy Best Storyteller
Aman Gupta Celebrity Creator

Category Winner The Gender Inequality Index
Da’Vine Joy Randolph, “The The Gender Inequality Index (GII) is a composite measure that
Best Supporting Actress evaluates gender inequality across three dimensions:
Holdovers”
1. Reproductive health
Best Animated Short “War Is Over!”
2. Empowerment
Best Animated Feature “The Boy and the Heron” 3. Labor market participation
Best Original Screenplay “Anatomy of a Fall” It takes into account indicators such as maternal mortality ratio,
Best Adapted Screenplay “American Fiction” adolescent birth rate, percentage of parliamentary seats held
by women, population with secondary education by gender,
Best Makeup and
“Poor Things” and labour force participation by gender. A lower GII value
Hairstyling
indicates lower inequality between women and men.
Best Production Design “Poor Things” The 2023-2024 HDR builds on the 2021–2022 Human
Best Costume Design “Poor Things” Development Report findings, which saw the global HDI value
Best International Feature “The Zone of Interest” fall for the first time—two years in a row. This report reveals
Robert Downey Jr., that human development recovery is uneven in nature. While
Best Supporting Actor wealthy countries are showing signs of robust recovery, the
“Oppenheimer”
poorest are struggling. All the member countries in the
Best Visual Effects “Godzilla Minus One”
Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development
Best Film Editing “Oppenheimer” (OECD) have surpassed their 2019 HDI level. But among least
Best Documentary (Short developed countries, only one in two have recovered their
“The Last Repair Shop”
Subject) already low pre-crisis HDI levels.
Best Documentary Feature “20 Days in Mariupol” Top-Ranked Countries
Best Cinematography “Oppenheimer” The top-ranked countries in the GII 2022 are:
Best Short Film (Live “The Wonderful Story of 1. Denmark
Action) Henry Sugar” 2. Norway
3. Switzerland
Best Sound “The Zone of Interest”
4. Sweden
Best Score “Oppenheimer” 5. Netherlands
“What Was I Made For?”
Best Song India’s Progress on Gender Inequality Index
from “Barbie”
Cillian Murphy, Year Rank Score
Best Actor
“Oppenheimer” 2022 108 0.437
Christopher Nolan,
Best Director 2021 122 0.490
“Oppenheimer”
2020 123 0.493
Best Actress Emma Stone, “Poor Things”
2019 122 0.501
Best Picture “Oppenheimer”
2018 127 0.501
India Jumps 14 Ranks on UNDP Gender Inequality Index India’s commitment to accelerating economic growth and
improving the quality of life for its citizens is reflected in its
According to the Human Development Report 2023-2024
steady progress on the Gender Inequality Index and other
released by the United Nations Development Programme
human development indicators.
(UNDP), India has made significant progress in bridging the
gender divide. The country has improved its ranking by 14 Human Development Index (HDI)
positions on the Gender Inequality Index (GII) 2022 compared India’s Human Development Index (HDI) value has also
increased to 0.644 in 2022, placing the country at the 134th
to the previous year.
spot out of 193 countries and territories. This improvement
In the GII 2022, India ranked 108 out of 193 countries, with a
comes after a drop in HDI value in 2021 and a flat trend over
score of 0.437. This marks a significant improvement from the
the past few years.
2021 ranking of 122 out of 191 countries, with a score of 0.490.
Since 1990, India has made remarkable progress in human
Over the past decade, India’s rank in the GII has consistently development, with increases in life expectancy, expected years
improved, indicating steady progress towards achieving gender of schooling, mean years of schooling, and per-capita gross
equality. national income (GNI).

GOI Approves Electric Vehicle Policy to Boost Local India’s Human Development Index ranking 134 out of 193
Manufacturing countries
The Indian government made a landmark announcement on India’s position in the United Nations Human Development
March 15, approving a comprehensive scheme aimed at
Index (HDI) for 2022 improved slightly, ranking 134 out of 193
positioning India as a global hub for electric vehicle (EV)
countries with an HDI value of 0.644. This signifies progress in
manufacturing. This policy, designed by the Ministry of
Commerce & Industry, seeks to entice significant investments various dimensions of human development, albeit with a
from renowned global EV manufacturers into the Indian continued need to focus on women-led development, as
market. The essence of the policy is to foster innovation, attract highlighted by the UNDP.
investments, and make advanced technology accessible within
India’s HDI Trends
the country.
Between 1990 and 2022, India experienced a significant
Key Policy Highlights increase in its HDI value by 48.4%, from 0.434 to 0.644, placing
• Minimum Investment: Companies are required to invest at it in the medium human development category. The country’s
least Rs 4,150 crore, with the policy not capping the
HDI improvement reflects advancements in life expectancy,
maximum possible investment. This move is to ensure
substantial financial influx into the EV sector. education, and Gross National Income (GNI) per capita.
• Manufacturing Timeline: The policy allows a three-year India’s Gender Inequality Progress
window for companies to establish their manufacturing India has shown progress in reducing gender inequality, ranking
facilities in India, commencing commercial production of
108 out of 166 countries in the Gender Inequality Index (GII)
EVs.
2022. Despite improvements, there remains a significant gender
• Local Sourcing: A notable feature of this initiative is the
mandate for companies to achieve a 25% localisation level gap in the labor force participation rate, with a difference of
by the end of the third year and 50% by the fifth year, 47.8 percentage points between women and men.
promoting domestic industries and components.
Performance of India’s Neighbors
• Import Benefits: To kickstart the transition, the
Comparatively, India’s neighbors vary in their human
government has permitted companies to import up to
8,000 EVs annually at a reduced customs duty of 15% on development achievements. Sri Lanka and China are ranked
cars valued over $35,000. This is a significant reduction higher, categorized under the High Human Development
from the current tariffs of 70% to 100%. category. Nepal and Pakistan have been ranked even lower in
• Incentive Caps and Conditions: The duty waiver on the HDI index.
imported EVs is directly linked to the company’s
investment or an equivalent incentive under the PLI Global Inequality Trends
scheme (capped at Rs 6,484 crore), whichever is lower. The global HDI is projected to reach record highs in 2023, yet
Furthermore, the policy outlines a limit of 40,000 EVs over inequality persists. Rich countries have achieved record levels
five years, provided the investment hits the $800 million of human development, while half of the world’s poorest
mark. countries remain below their pre-crisis levels, exacerbating
Ensuring Compliance and Promoting Domestic Growth global inequality and stoking political polarization.
To ensure that companies adhere to their commitments, a bank Key Country Rankings in HDI 2022
guarantee equivalent to the customs duty savings is required.
This guarantee stands as a compliance measure, safeguarding Rank Country HDI Value Change from 2021
the policy’s objectives and ensuring that the benefits are
75 China 0.788 +0.003
accurately aligned with investments and local sourcing
milestones. 78 Iran 0.780 +0.004
A Leap Towards Sustainable Mobility 78 Sri Lanka 0.780 -0.003

This policy is a strategic step towards enhancing the EV 87 Maldives 0.762 +0.009
ecosystem in India, promoting the Make in India initiative, and 125 Bhutan 0.681 +0.004
ensuring access to cutting-edge technology. It aligns with the
129 Bangladesh 0.670 +0.008
global shift towards sustainable transportation solutions,
positioning India as a significant player in the EV manufacturing 134 India 0.644 +0.011
sector. Through this policy, the government aims not only to 146 Nepal 0.601 +0.010
attract foreign investments but also to stimulate domestic 164 Pakistan 0.540 +0.003
production capabilities, fostering an environment conducive to
the growth of the electric vehicle industry in India. 182 Afghanistan 0.462 -0.011

These rankings highlight the varying degrees of human India has the second-largest older population globally, with 140
development across countries and underscore the need for million individuals aged 60 and above, trailing only China. The
concerted efforts to address inequalities and foster inclusive report said that older Indian men, particularly those in higher
development globally. age brackets, presently married, and those with an education,
tend to report greater life satisfaction compared to their
Finland Tops Happiness Rankings For 7th Year, Afghanistan counterparts.
Ranks Last Among older Indians, factors such as dissatisfaction with living
arrangements, perceived discrimination, and poor self-rated
The World Happiness Report is an annual survey conducted by health are linked to lower life satisfaction. Education level,
the United Nations. It ranks countries based on factors like life social caste, and contentment with living arrangements also
satisfaction, GDP per capita, social support, healthy life play a significant role in life satisfaction.
expectancy, freedom, generosity, and corruption.
For the seventh year in a row, Finland has been named the Happiness Trends
happiest country in the world. Other Nordic countries like • The sharpest decline in happiness since 2006-10 was
Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden also ranked among the top 10 observed in Afghanistan, Lebanon, and Jordan.
happiest nations. • The biggest increases in happiness were reported in the
Eastern European countries of Serbia, Bulgaria, and Latvia.
World’s 10 Happiest Countries in 2024 • Happiness inequality increased in every region except
Europe, which the report described as a “worrying trend”.
Rank Country
1 Finland Factors Contributing to Finland’s Happiness
According to a happiness researcher from the University of
2 Denmark Helsinki, some key factors contributing to Finland’s happiness
3 Iceland include:
4 Sweden • Close connection to nature
• Healthy work-life balance
5 Israel
• Attainable understanding of success (not solely focused on
6 Netherlands financial gain)
7 Norway • Strong welfare society
8 Luxembourg • Trust in state authorities
• Low levels of corruption
9 Switzerland
• Free healthcare and education
10 Australia
Generational Differences in Happiness
Afghanistan Remains the Unhappiest Country The report found that younger generations were happier than
At the bottom of the list is Afghanistan, which has been their older peers in most regions of the world, except for:
plagued by a humanitarian crisis since the Taliban regained • North America
control in 2020. • Australia
• New Zealand
Notable Changes in Rankings
In these regions, happiness among groups under 30 has
• The United States and Germany dropped out of the top 20 dropped dramatically since 2006-10, with older generations
happiest countries for the first time, ranking 23rd and 24th, now happier than the young.
respectively.
• Costa Rica and Kuwait entered the top 20 at positions 12
and 13.
• The report noted that the happiest countries no longer
include any of the world’s largest countries.
India’s Ranking and Factors Affecting Life Satisfaction
• India ranked 126 in the happiness index, the same as the
previous year.
• Factors like marital status, social engagement, and
physical health also influence life satisfaction among older
Indians.
• Satisfaction with living arrangements emerges as a critical
factor, reflecting the strong desire among older Indians to
age in place and maintain autonomy and social bonds.

Banking and Financial Current Affairs
• Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the National Urban • Reserve Bank Governor Shaktikanta Das recently
Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation announced the forthcoming launch of an interoperable
Limited (NUCFDC) in New Delhi. This umbrella organization payment system for internet banking, aimed at enhancing
aims to modernize and strengthen the Urban Cooperative the efficiency of digital payments in India. This move
addresses the current challenges faced by both customers
Banking Sector, benefiting banks and customers alike.
and merchants in net banking transactions. (Read the
(Read the complete article)
complete article)
• PB Fintech’s subsidiary, Policybazaar Insurance Brokers, • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced that 30
has secured approval from the Insurance Regulatory and banks are now participating in the UDGAM portal,
Development Authority of India (IRDAI) to transition from a designed for individuals to search for their unclaimed
direct insurance broker to a composite insurance broker. deposits/accounts. This portal, developed by the RBI, aims
This upgrade enables Policybazaar to sell reinsurance to provide a centralized platform for users to access
products in addition to general and life insurance offerings, information regarding unclaimed deposits across multiple
thereby enhancing insurance penetration in India. (Read banks. (Read the complete article)
the complete article) • Private sector life insurer Kotak Life Insurance made
headlines with the launch of its latest offering, Kotak
• Kotak Mahindra Bank has unveiled its latest offering, the
G.A.I.N. This non-linked participating product is designed to
Smart Choice Gold Loan, targeting aspirational customers cater to individuals seeking long-term savings or a steady
seeking convenient and flexible loan options. This new income stream. With its unique features and flexibility,
product is designed to leverage the significant gold Kotak G.A.I.N aims to address the diverse financial needs
reserves held by Indian households, providing an easy and of customers while ensuring robust protection for their
efficient way to meet their financial needs. (Read the loved ones. (Read the complete article)
complete article) • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Bank Indonesia (BI)
• The State Bank of India (SBI) has released a report have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed
at bolstering the utilization of local currencies – the Indian
predicting that India’s GDP growth for the financial year
Rupee (INR) and the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) – for cross-
2023-24 is likely to be close to 8%. This optimistic forecast
border transactions. (Read the complete article)
comes after India recorded an impressive 8.4% growth in
• NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL) has partnered with
the December quarter, with the National Statistical Office Nepal’s leading payment network, Fonepay Payment
(NSO) revising upwards the GDP estimates for the first and Service Ltd, to enable cross-border Unified Payment
second quarters of the fiscal year. (Read the complete Interface (UPI) transactions between India and Nepal. This
article) collaboration aims to enhance convenience and efficiency
• The Reserve Bank of India has given its approval for the in transactions for tourists visiting Nepal from India. (Read
merger of Fincare Small Finance Bank Ltd. with AU Small the complete article)
Finance Bank, effective from April 1. The merger is • IndusInd Bank, in collaboration with Mastercard,
introduces ‘Indus PayWear,’ offering tokenised wearables
sanctioned under Section 44A of the Banking Regulation
for debit and credit cards. This innovative solution aims to
Act, 1949. (Read the complete article)
enhance payment flexibility, convenience, and security for
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has taken stern action users. (Read Complete Article)
against IIFL Finance by imposing an immediate ban on the • On March 11, 2024, the Indian Renewable Energy
approval and disbursement of gold loans. This directive Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) celebrated its 38th
comes following a comprehensive inspection of the Foundation Day, marking a significant achievement in its
company’s financial position as of March 31, which journey towards promoting renewable energy
revealed significant supervisory concerns in its gold loan development in India. This special occasion provided an
portfolio. (Read the complete article) opportunity to reflect on IREDA’s remarkable 37-year
journey and its accomplishments in the field of green
• After reaching an all-time high in January, Unified Payment
finance. (Read Complete Article)
Interface (UPI) transactions in India experienced a slight
• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved
decrease in both value and volume in February. This the merger of a financial technology company,
decline, amounting to 0.7% in value and 0.8% in volume, Garagepreneurs Internet Private Limited (GIPL), with the
can be attributed to various factors including technical North East Small Finance Bank (NESFB). This strategic
issues at multiple banks and the shorter duration of the move aims to combine the strengths of both entities in the
month. (Read the complete article) financial services sector. (Read Complete Article)

• The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) • In an effort to advance cancer care in India, Axis Bank has
has secured $24.5 million from the Green Climate Fund pledged a significant contribution of ₹100 crore to the
(GCF) for its inaugural anchored project, the Avaana National Cancer Grid (NCG), in collaboration with Tata
Sustainability Fund (ASF), valued at $120 million. This Memorial Centre. This partnership aims to bolster research,
funding marks a significant milestone in climate finance innovation, and digital health adoption in oncology over
and sustainability initiatives within India. (Read Complete the next five years. (Read Complete Article)
Article) • In January, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) made its largest
• The share of private sector banks in total deposits has risen gold purchase since July 2022, acquiring 8.7 tonnes of gold.
significantly, reaching 34% as of December 2023, up from This brought the RBI’s gold holding to 812.3 tonnes, up
25% at the end of the financial year 2017-18. This growth from 803.58 tonnes in December 2023. The central bank’s
has been driven by aggressive interest rate offerings and move is aimed at diversifying its forex reserves and hedging
improved customer relationship management strategies against foreign currency risks. (Read Complete Article)
adopted by private banks. (Read Complete Article) • YES Bank has forged a strategic partnership with the Indian
• In a strategic move to bolster its production capacity in Olympic Association (IOA) to become the Official Banking
South India, automaker Tata Motors has announced plans Partner for Team India at the Paris Olympics 2024. This
to set up a new manufacturing unit in Tamil Nadu. With an collaboration aims to provide comprehensive support to
investment of Rs 9,000 crore over the next five years, the India’s Olympic athletes and their families. (Read Complete
company aims to leverage the state’s conducive business Article)
environment to propel its growth trajectory. (Read • According to Financial Services Secretary Vivek Joshi, the
Complete Article) insurance sector in India has received a massive Rs 53,900
crore as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the last 9 years
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued notices to
(between December 2014 and January 2024). There are
Federal Bank and South Indian Bank, directing them to
currently 70 insurance companies operating in the country.
halt the issuance of new co-branded credit cards. The two
(Read Complete Article)
banks informed the stock exchanges about this
• RBI imposed fines on Tamilnad Mercantile Bank (Rs 1.31
development. (Read Complete Article)
crore) and DCB Bank (Rs 63.6 lakh) for non-compliance with
• India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have
directives on 'Interest Rate on Advances'. (Read Complete
collaboratively signed a $181 million loan agreement
Article)
targeting the improvement of infrastructure and services in
• Airtel Payments Bank, in collaboration with Noise and
the peri-urban areas surrounding Ahmedabad city in
Mastercard, introduces a pioneering solution for
Gujarat. (Read Complete Article)
contactless payments through the Airtel Payments Bank
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a monetary Smart Watch. This innovative wearable aims to
penalty of ₹1.40 crore on Bank of India for non-compliance revolutionize digital transactions, offering convenience and
with certain directions issued by the central bank. (Read accessibility to urban customers. (Read Complete Article)
Complete Article) • Axis Mutual Fund, a prominent asset management firm
• Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released draft guidelines based in Mumbai, has teamed up with Enparadigm, a
outlining a disclosure framework for climate-related leader in AI-driven experiential learning solutions. This
financial risks applicable to various regulated entities collaboration aims to provide tailored learning journeys to
(REs). These guidelines aim to ensure transparency and enhance the performance and productivity of Axis MF
better management of climate risks within the financial employees across various levels. (Read Complete Article)
sector. (Read Complete Article) • DBS Bank India announced a lending commitment of USD
• The Union Government of India, in collaboration with the 250 million for new-age start-ups, demonstrating its
Asian Development Bank (ADB), has finalized a $23 million dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in
loan agreement aimed at bolstering the fintech landscape India’s thriving start-up ecosystem. With over 90,000 start-
within the country. The agreement targets the ups and more than 100 unicorns in India as of 2024, access
enhancement of access to quality fintech education and to capital remains a significant challenge for these
innovation, particularly within the Gujarat International companies despite their growing resilience. (Read
Finance Tec-City (GIFT-City). (Read Complete Article) Complete Article)
• SANY India, a top construction equipment manufacturer, • SBI Cards and Payment Services Ltd, in collaboration with
has forged a strategic partnership with J&K Bank to fuel Titan Company Ltd, proudly presents the Titan SBI Card, an
growth and development opportunities in the region. The exclusive shopping credit card designed to offer
collaboration aims to offer accessible financial solutions to unparalleled benefits to its users. With a focus on
customers, facilitating the acquisition of advanced cashbacks, gift vouchers, and reward points, this card
machinery for infrastructure projects. (Read Complete promises benefits worth over ₹2,00,000 annually. (Read
Article) Complete Article)

• PolicyBazaar, a prominent player in insurance and financial involves the transfer of 100% equity share capital of Lanco
services, has unveiled plans to diversify its offerings by Amarkantak Power Limited to Adani Power Limited. (Read
establishing a wholly owned subsidiary named ‘PB Pay the complete article)
Private Limited.’ This subsidiary, approved by the Board of • The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of
Directors on March 20, 2024, aims to specialize in payment India (IRDAI) has designated three insurers as Domestic
aggregation services, both domestically and Systemically Important Insurers (D-SIIs) for the year 2023-
internationally, subject to regulatory clearances. (Read 24. These insurers, namely Life Insurance Corporation of
Complete Article) India (LIC), General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC
• In a strategic collaboration with the National Payments Re), and New India Assurance Co Ltd, have retained their
Corporation of India (NPCI), Federal Bank introduces ‘Flash D-SII status from the previous year. D-SIIs are insurers of
Pay,‘ a revolutionary RuPay smart key chain facilitating significant size and market importance whose distress or
contactless NCMC (National Common Mobility Card) failure could disrupt the domestic financial system. (Read
payments. This innovative solution enables users to tap and the complete article)
pay at metro stations and PoS terminals, ensuring swift • In a significant move, the Securities and Exchange Board of
transactions with enhanced security. (Read the complete India (SEBI) has cancelled the registration of Karvy Investor
article) Services Ltd (KISL) as a merchant banker due to a breach
• The Modi government has allocated Rs 6212.03 crore to of eligibility criteria. (Read the complete article)
Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) as part of the recapitalization • In a strategic move, Kotak Mahindra Bank has successfully
scheme on March 6. RRBs, established in 1975 and owned acquired Sonata Finance Private Limited (Sonata) for a
by the Indian government, function at the regional level total consideration of approximately Rs. 537 crore. This
across various states. They were set up with the objective acquisition grants Kotak Mahindra Bank full ownership of
of offering fundamental banking and financial services to Sonata, bolstering its presence in the microfinance sector.
rural regions, specifically targeting small and marginal (Read the complete article)
farmers, agricultural laborers, artisans, and small • Axis Bank has announced the introduction of digital US
entrepreneurs. (Read the complete article) dollar fixed deposits (FDs) for NRI customers at the IFSC
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has taken action against Banking Unit (IBU) at GIFT City, Gujarat. The bank has
five co-operative banks for various rule violations. These become the first to offer a digital journey for opening
penalties are imposed based on regulatory compliance deposits at GIFT City. (Read the complete article)
shortcomings and do not question the validity of the banks’ • India’s foreign exchange reserves have soared to a new
transactions with customers. Navsarjan Industrial Co- peak, reaching $642.631 billion in the week ending March
operative Bank Ltd, Mehsana Jilla Panchayat Karmachari 22, marking the fifth consecutive week of increase,
Co-operative Bank, Halol Urban Co-operative Bank, according to the latest data from the Reserve Bank of India
Stambhadri Co-operative Urban Bank and (RBI). (Read the complete article)
Subramanianagar Co-operative Urban Bank. (Read the • Bank of India (BoI) has disclosed the receipt of an order
complete article) from the Income Tax Department, Assessment Unit,
• On March 26, 2024, the Competition Commission of India concerning the Assessment Year (AY) 2018-19. The order
(CCI) granted approval to Adani Power Limited, a imposes a penalty of ₹564.44 crore on various
subsidiary of the Adani Group, for the complete acquisition disallowances made by the bank. (Read the complete
of Lanco Amarkantak Power Limited. This acquisition article)
Economy Current Affairs

• Moody’s, the global credit rating agency, has raised its GDP • Crisil Ratings predicts India’s economy to expand by 6.8% in
forecast for India in 2024 to 6.8%, reflecting a positive FY25, with significant growth potential driven by domestic
economic outlook. This revision is based on India’s position reforms and cyclical factors. By 2031, India aims to double
as the fastest-growing economy among G20 nations, its economy to $7 trillion and achieve upper-middle-income
supported by robust growth prospects and policy status. (Read the complete article)
continuity. (Read the complete article) • UBS anticipates a moderation in India’s real GDP growth
• In February, India’s service sector sustained its growth for fiscal years 2025 and 2026, projecting rates of 7% and
trajectory, supported by positive demand trends. However, 6.8%, respectively. Despite this, India is expected to
there was a slight moderation in growth compared to maintain its position as one of the fastest-growing global
January, with the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) economies. The report highlights the continuation of
dropping to 60.6 from 61.8. Despite this decline, the sector growth momentum in the first three quarters of fiscal year
remained well above the neutral mark of 50.0, indicating a 2024, driven by cyclical recovery and structural
sharp rate of expansion. (Read the complete article) improvements. (Read the complete article)

• The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) for January 2024 landscape. The report focuses on GDP growth forecasts for
reflects a growth rate of 3.8%, indicating a slowdown various economies, factors influencing growth trajectories,
compared to December 2023. The data, released with a six- and expectations regarding monetary policy adjustments.
week lag, provides insights into the performance of various (Read the complete article)
sectors within the industrial landscape of India. (Read • In the third quarter of the fiscal year 2023-24, India’s
Complete Article) current account balance showed a deficit of US$ 10.5
• Retail inflation in February 2024 saw a decline to a four- billion, equivalent to 1.2 per cent of GDP. This marked a
month low of 5.09 per cent, remaining well within the decrease from US$ 11.4 billion (1.3 per cent of GDP) in the
Reserve Bank of India’s comfort zone of 6 per cent for the previous quarter and US$ 16.8 billion (2.0 per cent of GDP)
sixth consecutive month. While the overall inflation figure in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year. (Read the
remained relatively steady compared to January, certain complete article)
items within the food basket experienced price increases. • S&P Global Ratings anticipates a repo rate reduction of up
(Read Complete Article) to 75 basis points by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
• Fitch Ratings has raised India’s growth forecast for FY25 to during the fiscal year 2024-25. This move aligns with
7%, up from the previous estimate of 6.5%. The upgrade is projected adjustments in US policy rates, with the majority
attributed to robust domestic demand and sustained of the cuts expected in the latter half of the financial year.
growth in business and consumer confidence, following a The agency also foresees similar rate adjustments in
strong 8.4% expansion in Q3FY24. (Read Complete Article) Indonesia, New Zealand, and the Philippines. Factors such
• India’s foreign exchange reserves witnessed a significant as declining inflation, a reduced fiscal deficit, and lower
surge, marking a third consecutive increase in the week US policy rates set the stage for the RBI to initiate rate
ended March 8, 2024. This surge propelled the reserves to cuts, possibly around June 2024 or later. (Read the
reach a two-year high of $636.1 billion, showing the complete article)
highest weekly increase since July 14, 2023, according to • The Indian government has outlined its borrowing strategy
data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). (Read Complete for the first half of the fiscal year 2024-25, aiming to raise
Article) Rs 7.5 lakh crore from the market through the issuance of
• In FY 2023-24, Gross Direct Tax collections soared to Rs. various bonds, including sovereign green bonds. (Read the
22,27,067 crore, marking an 18.74% increase from the complete article)
previous year. Net collections rose by over 19.88%, with • Morgan Stanley has increased its GDP growth forecast for
Advance Tax contributions hitting Rs. 9,11,534 crore, up India for the financial year 2024-25 (FY25) to 6.8%, up
22.31%, showcasing robust economic growth. (Read from the previous estimate of 6.5%. This revision reflects a
Complete Article) positive outlook on India’s economic trajectory,
• In a notable increase, India’s outward foreign direct emphasizing its strength and stability in the current cycle.
investment (FDI) commitments soared to $3.47 billion in The firm also revised its growth forecast for the ongoing
February 2024, marking a significant rise from the $2.82 financial year, FY24, to 7.9%. (Read the complete article)
billion recorded in February 2023, and an increase from • The Government e Marketplace (GeM) has witnessed a
$2.18 billion in January 2024. This data, released by the remarkable growth, doubling its Gross Merchandise Value
Reserve Bank of India (RBI), highlights a growing trend in (GMV) to ₹4-lakh crore in fiscal year 2023-24. CEO P K
India’s financial commitments abroad. (Read Complete Singh announced plans for potential expansion, including
Article) opening the portal for consumer use and enhancing its
• In February 2024, the All-India Consumer Price Index (CPI) services. (Read the complete article)
for Agricultural Laborers and Rural Laborers remained
stable, with figures of 1258 and 1269, respectively, based
on the 1986-87=100 index. However, there were notable
fluctuations observed among constituent states. Eight
states saw a decline in the CPI-AL, while seven experienced
a similar trend in the CPI-RL, with two states showing no
change. (Read Complete Article)
• In January 2024, the index of mineral production in the
mining and quarrying sector stood at 144.1, indicating a
5.9% increase compared to January 2023. The cumulative
growth for April-January 2023-24 over the corresponding
period of the previous year is recorded at 8.3%. (Read
Complete Article)
• S&P Global released its Economic Outlook Asia-Pacific Q2
2024 report, offering insights into the region’s economic

Business Current Affairs
• Ecommerce giant Flipkart has made a significant move in • State-owned Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL) has
the digital payments space by introducing its own UPI clinched a significant order from power giant NTPC to
services, Flipkart UPI, in partnership with Axis Bank. This establish a 1,600 MW Singrauli thermal power project
initiative aims to provide customers with seamless (Stage-II). This underscores BHEL’s continued prowess in
payment options directly integrated into the Flipkart the power generation equipment sector. (Read the
platform. (Read the complete article) complete article)
• REC Limited, a prominent Maharatna Central Public Sector • Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOC), the nation’s premier oil
Enterprise under the Ministry of Power and a leading Non- firm, is set to revolutionize the motorsports industry by
Banking Finance Company, has recently joined hands with manufacturing fuel tailored for adrenaline-pumping
the Unit of Science and Educational Development
Formula One (F1) racing. With its latest offering, ‘Storm’
(UNISED) to bolster educational initiatives in
petrol, IOC aims to expand its repertoire of niche fuels,
Siddharthnagar district, Uttar Pradesh. Through its
catering to the high-performance demands of motor racing
Corporate Social Responsibility arm, REC Foundation, REC
enthusiasts. (Read the complete article)
has pledged a significant financial assistance of Rs. 9.91
• Infibeam Avenues, India’s pioneering AI-powered fintech
crores for the education of approximately 75,500 children
in the district. (Read the complete article) company and the country’s first listed entity in this domain,
• In a virtual ceremony, Finance and Corporate Affairs has achieved a significant milestone. On March 4, the
Minister Nirmala Sitharaman received an interim dividend Reserve Bank of India (RBI) granted the final authorization
cheque of ₹2,441.44 crore from LIC Chairman Siddhartha for Infibeam Avenues to function as a payment aggregator
Mohanty, showcasing the insurance giant’s financial under its renowned payment gateway brand, CCAvenue.
strength. The event also marked the inauguration of LIC’s This development follows the in-principle approval given in
new international business centre at GIFT City, Gujarat, October 2022. (Read the complete article)
emphasizing the company’s dedication to offering top- • The Union Cabinet has sanctioned a 4% increase in
notch insurance and financial services globally. (Read the Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) for
complete article) central government employees and pensioners, effective
• Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle from January 1. This decision aims to benefit over 10
manufacturer, has recently unveiled its next-generation, million employees and 6.79 million pensioners, with a
green-fuel powered commercial vehicles to Tata Steel. combined impact on the exchequer of Rs 12,869 crore
The fleet comprises Prima tractors, tippers, and the Ultra annually. (Read the complete article)
EV bus, which are powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) • NLCIL has emerged victorious in securing a 600 MW Solar
and battery electric technologies. The flag-off ceremony Power Project tender within the GSECL Khavda Solar Park,
took place during Tata Group’s Founder’s Day celebrations initiated by GUVNL through a competitive bidding process.
in Jamshedpur, officiated by Mr. N Chandrasekaran, Reflecting its commitment to renewable energy initiatives,
Chairman of Tata Sons. (Read the complete article)
NLCIL has entrusted the project development
• The government of India has announced plans to sell up to
responsibilities to NIGEL, its green energy wholly owned
7% of its stake in NLC India, formerly known as Neyveli
subsidiary. (Read the complete article)
Lignite Corp, through an Offer for Sale (OFS). This move
• The Department of Science and Technology (DST), in
aims to raise between Rs 2,000 crore and Rs 2,100 crore,
collaboration with T-Hub, has launched the Machine
contributing to the government’s disinvestment goals.
(Read the complete article) Learning and Artificial Intelligence Technology Hub
(MATH) in Hyderabad. This initiative aims to accelerate AI
• Accenture, a global leader in technology consulting and
services, has unveiled a strategic initiative aimed at innovation, facilitate job creation, and foster a supportive
enhancing upskilling opportunities for its clients. This ecosystem for AI and ML startups. (Read the complete
involves a significant investment of $1 billion over three article)
years and includes the acquisition of California-based • Big Bang Boom Solutions (BBBS), a homegrown IDEX
edtech platform, Udacity. (Read the complete article) (Innovations for Defence Excellence) startup, clinches a
• Fly91, a regional airline headquartered in Goa, has reached major order exceeding Rs 200 Crores for its state-of-the-art
a significant milestone in its journey with the issuance of its anti-drone technology. Signed by the Ministry of Defence
Air Operator Certificate (AOC) by the Directorate General (MoD) with BBBS, this contract marks the largest under
of Civil Aviation (DGCA) under the Ministry of Civil Aviation. the IDEX initiative, aimed at benefiting the Indian Army
(Read the complete article) and the Indian Air Force. (Read Complete Article)
• Aditya Birla Capital’s decision to merge with its wholly- • Adani Green Energy announced the operationalisation of
owned subsidiary, Aditya Birla Finance, is poised to reshape an additional 126 MW capacity in its 300 MW wind power
the NBFC landscape in India. This strategic move not only project in Gujarat. This comes after the earlier
consolidates their financial services arm but also aligns with operationalisation of 174 MW, marking a significant
RBI’s regulations, avoiding the need for Aditya Birla Finance milestone for the company. (Read Complete Article)
to go public. (Read Complete Article) • Max India Ltd announced a strategic partnership between
• Tata Power Solar Systems Limited (TPSSL), a fully its subsidiary, Antara Assisted Care Services Limited, and
the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi). This
integrated solar company in India and a subsidiary of TPREL
collaboration aims to address the challenges faced by
(Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited), has achieved a
India’s aging population by developing tailored solutions to
significant milestone by completing the country’s largest
improve their quality of life. (Read Complete Article)
Solar and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) project
• Startup Mahakumbh 2024, a groundbreaking initiative led
in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh. (Read Complete Article) by industry giants such as ASSOCHAM, Nasscom, Bootstrap
• National Institute of Electronics and Information Incubation & Advisory Foundation, TiE, and Indian Venture
Technology (NIELIT) of India and the Information and Alternate Capital Association, is set to unite over 1,000
Technology Institute (ITI) of Egypt. This significant event startups, 50 unicorns, 500 incubators, and 5,000 delegates
took place in Cairo, Egypt. This collaboration seeks to from 23 countries. This three-day event, supported by the
bridge the gap in ICT skills, enhancing industry Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
engagement and fostering meaningful international (DPIIT), aims to foster innovation and collaboration across
cooperation between India and Egypt. (Read Complete various sectors, featuring prominent figures like Amitabh
Article) Kant, Sivasubramanian Ramann, and Falguni Nayar. (Read
• Aurionpro Solutions has clinched a significant deal with the Complete Article)
State Bank of India (SBI) for the license, implementation, • Tata Sons, aiming to alleviate its debt, plans to sell 0.65%
and support of its cutting-edge cash management and equity in Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) for ₹9,362.3
transaction banking platform, iCashpro+. Valued at nearly crore. This move precedes a potential IPO, with related
stocks rallying. TCS dividends, contributing 95% of FY23
Rs 100 crore, this prestigious contract entails phased
revenue, highlight its strategic importance within Tata’s
delivery of license and implementation over 12 months,
asset portfolio. (Read Complete Article)
followed by a 6-year maintenance and support period.
• Reliance Consumer Products (RCPL) has solidified a
strategic partnership with Elephant House, a prominent Sri
• India’s Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) opens its first Lankan beverage manufacturer. This collaboration aims to
overseas office in Dhaka, Bangladesh, signaling its introduce, market, distribute, and sell Elephant House
commitment to international expansion and stronger brand beverages throughout India, thereby augmenting
regional ties. High Commissioner of India to Bangladesh, RCPL’s beverage offerings. (Read Complete Article)
Pranay Verma, inaugurates NRL’s liaison office in the • Grid Controller of India Limited (GRID-INDIA) has achieved
presence of NRL managing director Bhaskar Jyoti Phukan a significant milestone by being conferred with the status
and other dignitaries. (Read Complete Article) of Miniratna Category-I Central Public Sector Enterprise
• Reliance Industries, India’s largest private company, has (CPSE). This recognition was bestowed upon by the
announced its acquisition of Paramount Global’s entire Ministry of Power, Government of India, highlighting
13.01% stake in Viacom 18 Media for Rs 4,286 crore ($517 GRID-INDIA’s pivotal role in the nation’s power landscape.
million). This significant transaction underscores Reliance’s (Read Complete Article)
strategic positioning in the media industry, further • The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) is gearing
solidifying its presence in the competitive market. (Read up to introduce the BhashaNet portal during the upcoming
Universal Acceptance (UA) Day. This initiative aims to
Complete Article)
advance digital inclusion and linguistic diversity in India,
• The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal
showcasing collaborative efforts between NIXI and the
Trade (DPIIT) releases the monthly Wholesale Price Index Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
(WPI) for India. This report provides crucial information on (MeitY). (Read Complete Article)
price changes in various sectors of the economy, aiding in • In a significant move, the Gujarat Cooperative Milk
economic analysis and policy formulation. The WPI for Marketing Federation (GCMMF), the organization behind
February 2024, with a base year of 2011-12, reflects a the iconic Amul brand, is set to launch its fresh milk
0.20% provisional annual inflation rate, driven primarily by products in the United States for the first time. This
increases in food articles, crude petroleum & natural gas, expansion marks a major milestone for the brand, as it aims
electricity, machinery & equipment, and motor vehicles, to cater to the Indian diaspora and Asian population in the
trailers & semi-trailers. (Read Complete Article) US. (Read the complete article)

• PepsiCo, the U.S. food and beverage giant, has committed • In a remarkable move, two of India’s richest businessmen,
to investing an additional $400 million in Vietnam. This Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani, have joined forces for
decision was made public during a visit by delegations from the first time. Reliance Industries, owned by Ambani, has
over 60 U.S. enterprises, including Suntory PepsiCo acquired a 26% stake in a power project owned by Adani’s
Vietnam Beverage, to Vietnam last week. (Read the company in Madhya Pradesh. (Read the complete article)
complete article)
• The Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) witnessed a
• Innoviti Payments and Concerto Software have received
significant 6.7% increase (provisional) in February 2024
payment aggregator (PA) licences from the Reserve Bank
compared to the same month in 2023. This growth was
of India (RBI), marking significant milestones in the digital
payments landscape of India. Innoviti operates the PA driven by positive performances across various sectors,
‘Innoviti Link’, serving 2,500 online merchants, while including Coal, Natural Gas, Cement, Steel, Crude Oil,
Concerto Software’s gateway ‘Vegaah’ joins the league of Electricity, and Refinery Products. (Read the complete
authorized PA solutions. (Read the complete article) article)
• Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), a • Tata Passenger Electric Mobility (TPEM), a unit of Tata
subsidiary of the Adani Group, has acquired a controlling Motors, has announced a strategic partnership with
95% stake in Gopalpur Port located in Odisha. The deal, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) to establish a
valued at Rs 3,350 crore, solidifies APSEZ’s position in the nationwide network of 5,000 public charging stations for
ports and logistics sector. (Read the complete article) electric vehicles (EVs) by the end of 2024. (Read the
• Wipro-GE Healthcare, a prominent player in medical complete article)
technology and digital solutions, is set to invest Rs 8,000
• The Adani Group has announced the start of the first phase
crore over the next five years in India. This investment aims
of the world’s largest single-location copper manufacturing
to strengthen its manufacturing output and research and
development capabilities. The company’s focus is on plant at Mundra in Gujarat. The facility, owned by Kutch
expanding its ‘Make in India for the World’ initiative, Copper (a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Ltd), will help
emphasizing increased localization and exports of medical reduce India’s dependence on copper imports and support
equipment. (Read the complete article) the energy transition. (Read the complete article)
International Current Affairs

• Tuvalu has named Feleti Teo, the former Attorney General, • Sweden formally became the 32nd member of NATO after
as the Pacific Island nation’s new prime minister. This completing its accession process in Washington. This
appointment comes in the aftermath of a general election decision comes two years after Sweden’s application,
that placed the country’s diplomatic affiliations, especially triggered by Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine,
its ties with Taiwan, under intense scrutiny. (Read the highlighting concerns about regional security. (Read the
complete article)
complete article)
• Panama has officially become the 97th member of the
• Dubai witnessed an extraordinary event with the city-
International Solar Alliance (ISA). This milestone was
state’s inaugural jet suit race. Organized by Gravity
announced by Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesperson for the
Industries in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Panama’s accession
this groundbreaking competition showcased pilots underscores the country’s commitment to embracing
equipped with jet engines on their hands and backs, sustainable energy sources and marks a crucial step in the
resembling real-life ‘Iron Men’. (Read the complete article) global march towards a greener future. (Read the
• In a groundbreaking move, France has made history by complete article)
becoming the first nation globally to anchor the right to • The Indian Consulate in Dubai has introduced a new
abortion within its constitution. This decision represents a insurance package called the Life Protection Plan (LPP) for
significant advancement in the protection of reproductive Indian blue-collar workers in the United Arab Emirates
rights, sparking a mix of applause and criticism across (UAE). This plan aims to provide financial benefits to the
different spectrums of society. (Read the complete article) families of the workers in case of natural or accidental
deaths. (Read the complete article)
• Hungary’s parliament recently appointed a new president
• Hong Kong has introduced a new national security law
following the resignation of the previous head of state
draft. The proposed legislation, covering treason,
amidst a scandal involving a controversial pardon granted espionage, and external interference, signifies a significant
in a child sexual abuse case. The appointment of Tamás increase in state authority in the region. This development
Sulyok, a former head of Hungary’s Constitutional Court, arises amidst a wider crackdown on dissent, resulting in
sparked debate among opposition parties calling for direct pro-democracy figures being imprisoned or exiled. (Read
presidential elections. (Read the complete article) the complete article)
• Asif Ali Zardari took oath as Pakistan’s 14th President • The United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia
following his overwhelming victory in the presidential have forged the AUKUS partnership to bolster trilateral
election. (Read Complete Article) security and construct nuclear-powered submarines for
• China recently announced a new territorial sea baseline in the Royal Australian Navy. This landmark agreement
the northern part of the Gulf of Tonkin, shared with signifies a significant advancement in defense collaboration
Vietnam, sparking concerns about potential impacts on among the three nations. (Read Complete Article)
existing agreements and regional stability. (Read Complete • Simon Harris, a prominent figure in Irish politics, has
Article) emerged as the sole candidate in the race to become
• In a landmark gathering in Yaoundé, Cameroon, health Ireland’s next prime minister following the unexpected
ministers from 11 African nations, along with global departure of Leo Varadkar. At 37 years old, Harris is poised
malaria partners and stakeholders, convened to address to become the youngest prime minister in Ireland’s
the escalating malaria crisis in Africa. Despite available history. (Read Complete Article)
tools and systems, malaria cases surged globally, with • The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed early
Africa bearing the brunt, accounting for 94% of cases and on March 26 after a container ship collided with a pylon,
95% of deaths in 2022. (Read Complete Article) resulting in the presumed death of six individuals who fell
• The naval forces of China, Iran, and Russia launched a joint into the cold waters below. The incident has halted
exercise near the Gulf of Oman, aimed at safeguarding operations at one of the busiest ports on the U.S. Eastern
regional maritime security. The “Security Belt-2024” Seaboard. (Read the complete article)
exercise marks the fourth time these countries have • After eight years of Socialist rule in Portugal, Luis
conducted such a drill since 2019. (Read Complete Article) Montenegro, leader of the centre-right Democratic Alliance
• President Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian Authority (AD), has been appointed as the new prime minister.
(PA) has appointed Mohammad Mustafa as the new Prime However, his minority government faces challenges due to
Minister. Mustafa, a U.S.-educated economist, is one of the his refusal to ally with the far-right Chega party. (Read the
leading Palestinian business figures with a track record of complete article)
overseeing Gaza’s reconstruction efforts under Hamas’ • Rumi Alqahtani, a 27-year-old model and influencer from
rule. (Read Complete Article)
Saudi Arabia, announced on Instagram that she will be the
• Britain has recently conducted successful test firings of its first participant from the country in the Miss Universe
DragonFire Laser Directed Energy Weapon (LDEW), competition. Alqahtani was born in Riyadh and has
showcasing its capability to intercept enemy aircraft and
previously won the titles of Miss Saudi Arabia, Miss Arab
missiles at a remarkably low cost. A January demonstration
World Peace 2021, and Miss Woman (Saudi Arabia). This
in Scotland displayed the laser’s precision in targeting and
will be the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s first appearance in
destroying aerial threats, marking a potential game-
the Miss Universe pageant. (Read the complete article)
changer in air defense technology. (Read Complete Article)
• Bassirou Diomaye Faye, an anti-establishment figure, has
• Russian President Vladimir Putin clinched victory in the
won the Senegalese presidential election with 54.28 per
recent election with a commanding lead of 76.1% of the
cent of the votes in the first round. At 44 years old, Faye is
vote, as per preliminary results. This win marks Putin’s
set to become Africa’s youngest elected president and the
continued dominance in Russian politics, now extending his
first opponent to win in the first round since Senegal’s
tenure to a total of 24 years in power. (Read Complete
independence from France in 1960. His victory still needs
Article)
to be validated by Senegal’s Constitutional Council in the
• In a move to boost its tourism industry, the government of
next few days. (Read the complete article)
Nepal has officially declared Pokhara, a city in the Gandaki
• Thailand’s lower house of Parliament has passed a
province, as the tourism capital of the Himalayan nation.
groundbreaking bill to legalize same-sex marriage, marking
The declaration was made during a special ceremony held
at the Barahi Ghat on the shores of the Phewa Lake. (Read a significant step towards equality in Southeast Asia. The
Complete Article) legislation, an amendment to the Civil and Commercial
• Vaughan Gething, who currently serves as the Economic Code, garnered overwhelming support in the House of
Minister of Wales, has been elected as the new leader of Representatives. (Read the complete article)
the Welsh Labour Party. His victory marks a historic • Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed a bill that
milestone as he becomes the first ever Black person to prohibits minors under 14 from having social media
lead a European country. (Read Complete Article) accounts. The law requires parental permission for 14- and
• The New Zealand government has announced a ban on 15-year-olds to create accounts on platforms like Meta,
disposable e-cigarettes or vapes. The move comes less TikTok, and others. All social media users in Florida must
than a month after the country repealed a law that aimed submit identification documents to verify their ages. (Read
to phase out tobacco smoking. (Read Complete Article) the complete article)

National Current Affairs
• Observed every year on March 3, World Hearing Day 2024 • Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, overseeing Petroleum and
fall on a Sunday. The theme for this year, as designated by Natural Gas as well as Housing and Urban Affairs, dedicated
the World Health Organization (WHO), is “Changing 201 CNG Stations and India’s inaugural Small Scale LNG
mindsets: Let’s make ear and hearing care a reality for Unit of GAIL to the nation via video conferencing. The
all.” This theme underscores the need to combat societal event, graced by numerous dignitaries, underscored the
misconceptions and stigmatizing attitudes through government’s pledge to elevate the share of natural gas in
heightened awareness and the dissemination of the primary energy basket to 15% by 2030. (Read the
information, targeting both the general public and complete article)
• In a significant development, the Indian government,
healthcare providers. (Read the complete article)
following consultations with the Election Commission of
• Union Minister for Minority Affairs, Smriti Zubin Irani,
India (ECI), has revised the minimum age criterion for
introduced two significant initiatives aimed at enhancing
senior citizens to avail the postal ballot voting facility. The
the Haj pilgrimage experience for 2024. The Haj Suvidha decision, which comes into effect immediately, raises the
App was launched to provide essential information and eligibility age from 80 to 85 years, marking a pivotal change
access to crucial services, while the Haj Guide-2024 was in the electoral process aimed at ensuring greater
released to educate pilgrims about various aspects of the convenience for the nation’s elderly population. (Read the
journey, with a focus on utilizing the app effectively. (Read complete article)
the complete article) • India’s first National Dolphin Research Center (NDRC) was
• Union Minister for Steel and Civil Aviation, Sh. Jyotiraditya officially inaugurated by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
M. Scindia, virtually inaugurated India’s 1st Green This landmark facility, built at a cost of Rs 30 crore, is
Hydrogen Plant in Stainless Steel Sector located at Jindal situated on the banks of the Ganges River within the Patna
Stainless Limited, Hisar, on 4th March, 2024. The University campus. (Read the complete article)
inauguration also witnessed the presence of Secretary, • A new chapter in management education unfolds as the
Ministry of Steel Sh. Nagendra Nath Sinha, Managing Union Minister for Education, Skill Development &
Director (Jindal Stainless Limited), Sh. Abhyuday Jindal, Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, inaugurated
Founder, Hygenco Sh. Amit Bansal, and other officials of the Centre of Management Education jointly established
the Ministry of Steel. (Read the complete article) by IIM Mumbai and IIM Sambalpur. The inauguration took
place at the NALCO Training Institute in Angul, Odisha,
• Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilisers and Health and
amidst the presence of Shri Sridhar Patra, CMD, NALCO.
Family Welfare, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, virtually
inaugurated three centers of the Central Institute of
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s
Petrochemicals Engineering & Technology (CIPET) from
pioneering underwater metro train service in Kolkata,
New Delhi. These centers, located in Himachal Pradesh, ushering in a landmark achievement in the nation’s
Jharkhand, and Madhya Pradesh, are significant additions infrastructure and urban development. The service, which
to CIPET’s network. (Read the complete article) is a significant component of the Kolkata Metro’s East-
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the beginning of a West corridor, is designed to enhance connectivity
new era in India’s nuclear energy sector by witnessing the between Howrah and Salt Lake, the twin cities of West
“Core Loading” at the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor Bengal’s capital. (Read the complete article)
(PFBR) in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu. This event signifies the
near completion of India’s first indigenous PFBR, a
landmark project fully designed and constructed within the
country by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited
(BHAVINI), in collaboration with over 200 Indian industries,
including numerous MSMEs. (Read the complete article)
• In a significant stride towards bolstering cyber-security
measures and enhancing citizen empowerment, the
Department of Telecommunications (DoT) recently
unveiled the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP) alongside
the ‘Chakshu’ facility on the Sanchar Saathi portal. This
initiative aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders
to combat the misuse of telecom resources in cyber-crime
and financial frauds. (Read the complete article)
• In a significant development, Union Minister Ashwini tunnel is situated on the road from Tezpur, Assam, to
Vaishnaw will inaugurate the ‘NITI For States’ platform by Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kameng district. The
NITI Aayog in New Delhi. This platform, serving as a Digital project, valued at Rs 825 crore, aims to provide all-weather
Public Infrastructure (DPI), is designed to bolster policy connectivity and bolster the Armed Forces’ readiness in the
formulation and promote good governance across states. region. (Read Complete Article)
(Read the complete article) • Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a 125-foot bronze
• India, as a party to the Convention on International Trade statue of the legendary Ahom general, Lachit Borphukan,
in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), has at his burial site in eastern Assam’s Jorhat district. This
recently implemented stringent measures to regulate the event marks a significant tribute to Borphukan’s valor and
possession and trade of exotic pets. The Living Animal leadership in the history of Assam. (Read Complete Article)
Species (Reporting and Registration) Rules, 2024, issued • At the end of the decade from 2014 to 2024, India has
by the Union environment ministry on February 28, aim to emerged as the world’s second-largest producer of mobile
enforce the provisions of the Convention and ensure the phones. This achievement marks a significant transition for
protection of endangered wildlife. (Read the complete the country’s electronics manufacturing sector. (Read
article) Complete Article)
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has unveiled his ambitious • Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Gurgaon
plan to make India a prime wedding destination, aiming to stretch of the Dwarka Expressway alongside Haryana CM
boost tourism and retain revenue within the country. His Manohar Lal Khattar and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.
recent address at a rally in Jammu and Kashmir highlighted The inspection of the expressway was conducted on foot,
this mission, emphasizing the potential of hosting weddings showcasing its significance for transportation
in diverse locales across India. (Read the complete article) infrastructure. (Read Complete Article)
• Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Arjun • Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the
Munda, unveiled the Agriculture Integrated Command and commencement of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) facilities in 41
Control Centre at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi. This initiative villages and various development projects in 178 villages
aims to empower farmers nationwide by providing them under the ‘Dilli Gramodaya Abhiyan’. The initiative aims to
uplift the infrastructure and living standards in rural areas
with essential information, services, and facilities. (Read
of Delhi. (Read Complete Article)
the complete article)
• Union Minister for Communications, Electronics, and
• On the occasion of the 134th Foundation Day of the
Information Technology and Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw,
National Archives of India, Minister of State for
unveiled India’s fastest and indigenously developed
Parliamentary Affairs and Culture, Arjun Ram Meghwal, will
IP/MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) router in
inaugurate a digital exhibition titled “Subhash
Bengaluru. (Read Complete Article)
Abhinandan” in New Delhi on March 11th. Organized by
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi made headlines by
the National Archives of India, the exhibition
inaugurating 15 significant airport projects, marking an
commemorates the life of Subhash Chandra Bose, featuring
unprecedented infrastructural addition in Uttar Pradesh’s
16 sections covering key aspects from his birth to the
Azamgarh. This extensive initiative, almost valued at
present day. (Read the complete article)
₹10,000 crore, encompasses a blend of new airports,
• The Ministry of Women and Child Development will
expanded terminals, foundation stones for future airports,
organize Poshan Pakhwada nationwide from March 9 to
and other ancillary facilities. (Read Complete Article)
March 23, 2024. This 15-day celebration aims to spread
• National Commission for Protection of Child Rights
awareness about nutrition, dietary practices, and
(NCPCR) celebrated its 19th Foundation Day at the
women’s health. (Read the complete article) Jacaranda Hall, Indian Habitat Centre, New Delhi. To mark
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated projects worth this special occasion, the Commission invited children from
Rs 118 crore 72 lakh in Madhya Pradesh through video different parts of the country to acknowledge their efforts
conferencing. These projects are under the Swadesh and participation in the Commission’s Pariksha Parv
Darshan 2.0 scheme and the Prasad scheme. (Read the campaign. (Read Complete Article)
complete article) • Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Sabarmati Ashram to
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the Viksit Bharat inaugurate Kochrab Ashram and launch the Master Plan of
Viksit North East programme in Itanagar, Arunachal the Gandhi Ashram Memorial. This significant event
Pradesh on March 09, 2024, virtually dedicated the Sela commemorated Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy and
Tunnel project to the nation. Constructed by the Border contributions to India’s freedom struggle. (Read Complete
Roads Organisation (BRO) at an altitude of 13,000 feet, the Article)
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the inaugural • Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri unveiled ‘Ethanol
automobile in-plant railway siding at Suzuki Motor 100’, an automotive fuel aimed at reducing emissions and
Gujarat Private Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of promoting sustainability. This initiative is part of a broader
Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL). The ceremony, strategy to increase ethanol blending in petrol, with
conducted via video conferencing, signifies a pivotal significant strides already made in enhancing availability
advancement in the execution of the Prime Minister’s and infrastructure across select states. (Read Complete
flagship Gati Shakti programme. (Read Complete Article) Article)
• Union Minister Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, responsible for • Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated India’s
Electronics and IT, Skill Development, Entrepreneurship, first integrated oil palm processing unit, operated by 3F Oil
and Jal Shakti, inaugurated India’s first FutureLABS center Palm, marking a significant stride in the nation’s journey
at C-DAC Thiruvananthapuram. Named the “Centre for towards self-reliance in edible oils. Situated in Arunachal
Semiconductor Chips & Systems for Strategic Electronics,” Pradesh’s Roing, this project aligns with Mission Palm Oil
this pioneering initiative aims to catalyze an ecosystem for under the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm
next-generation chip design, manufacturing, and research. (NMEO-OP). (Read Complete Article)
(Read Complete Article) • Ahead of announcing the dates for the upcoming Lok
• Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of Science & Sabha elections, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar
Technology, inaugurated the “National Speed Breeding introduced a new mobile application called ‘Know Your
Crop Facility” at NABI (National Agri-Food Biotechnology Candidate’ (KYC). This app will enable voters to find out if
Institute), Mohali. This initiative aligns with PM Modi’s any electoral candidate in their constituency has any
vision of increasing farmers’ income and promoting Agri criminal records. (Read Complete Article)
StartUps. (Read Complete Article)
• The Maharishi Ayurveda Hospital in Shalimar Bagh, Delhi,
• Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Chemicals
is making headlines for its in-house restaurant, Soma-The
and Fertilizers and Health and Family Welfare,
Ayurvedic Kitchen. This restaurant is being hailed as the
spearheaded the inauguration of a credit assistance
first Ayurvedic Kitchen in India. (Read Complete Article)
program aimed at bolstering Jan Aushadhi Kendras across
• Pashupati Kumar Paras, former Union minister and
India. The program, initiated through a collaboration
president of the Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party (RLJP),
between SIDBI and PMBI, underscores the government’s
resigned from the Union Cabinet following his party’s
commitment to enhancing accessibility and affordability of
exclusion from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA)
medicines, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision
seat-sharing arrangement in Bihar for the upcoming Lok
of ‘Sanjeevani’ for the underprivileged. (Read Complete
Sabha elections. In response, President Droupadi Murmu
Article)
accepted his resignation and appointed Kiren Rijiju with an
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated three
additional charge as the Minister of Food Processing
semiconductor projects virtually, with a combined
Industries. (Read Complete Article)
investment of approximately Rs 1.25 Lakh Crore. These
projects signify a significant step towards bolstering India’s • Dr. Neeraj Mittal, Secretary of India’s Department of
semiconductor industry. The three facilities include a Telecommunications, led a significant delegation to Geneva
semiconductor fabrication unit in Dholera, Gujarat, an for strategic meetings at the International
Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) Telecommunication Union (ITU) Headquarters from March
facility in Morigaon, Assam, and another OSAT facility in 18-20. The aim was to enhance collaboration and explore
Sanand, Gujarat. (Read Complete Article) innovative initiatives in telecommunications and
• Yoga Mahotsav-2024 marked the 100-day countdown to information and communication technology (ICT) sectors.
the 10th edition of the International Day of Yoga (IDY) on (Read Complete Article)
June 21st, 2024, at Vigyan Bhawan. This year, the event • GoodEnough Energy has announced that it will start
focused on the theme “Yoga for Women Empowerment,” operations at India’s first battery energy storage
reflecting the Ministry of Ayush’s commitment to promote gigafactory in the northern region of Jammu and Kashmir
global health and peace through yoga, particularly by October 2023. (Read Complete Article)
emphasizing women’s well-being. (Read Complete Article) • Haiti is facing a severe crisis due to escalating gang
• Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Anurag violence. Armed gangs have launched attacks in the
Singh Thakur, inaugurated PB-SHABD, a news sharing suburbs of Port-au-Prince, prompting India to launch
service, alongside the revamped websites of DD News and Operation Indravati to evacuate its nationals to the
Akashvani News, and an updated News on Air mobile app Dominican Republic. Similarly, the US has airlifted more
at the National Media Centre, New Delhi. (Read Complete than 15 Americans to Santo Domingo. (Read Complete
Article) Article)

• In a determined effort to ensure accessibility and inclusivity • India aims to replace its minimum wage system with a
in the electoral process, the Election Commission has living wage framework by 2025, seeking assistance from
introduced the Saksham App. This initiative aims to the International Labour Organization (ILO) for technical
address the needs of voters above 85 years of age and support in creating and implementing this transition. (Read
Persons-with-Disabilities (PWDs) with a 40 percent the complete article)
benchmark disability, allowing them to cast their votes
• The Election Commission of India (ECI) is keeping a close
from the comfort of their homes. (Read the complete
watch on the election process through the cVIGIL app. The
article)
app allows citizens to report violations of the Model Code
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bhutanese
counterpart Tshering Tobgay jointly inaugurated a modern of Conduct and election expenditures by capturing photos
hospital in the Bhutanese capital, Thimphu. The Gyaltsuen and videos. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar said
Jetsun Pema Wangchuk Mother and Child Hospital is a that cVIGIL empowers citizens to report violations, with
shining example of the strong development cooperation assured action within 100 minutes. (Read the complete
between India and Bhutan. (Read the complete article) article)
States Current Affairs

• Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of MoPSW & AYUSH, Under this scheme, eligible women will receive a monthly
virtually inaugurated the 60T bollard pull tug named stipend of ₹1,500, amounting to an annual expenditure of
‘Ocean Grace’ and the Medical Mobile Unit (MMU) on ₹800 crore. (Read the complete article)
March 2, 2024. The Ocean Grace is the first Make-in-India • Bengaluru, famously known as the Garden City, is poised to
ASTDS Tug developed by Cochin Shipyard Limited under become the epicenter of cutting-edge advancements in the
MoPSW. The MMU is part of the port’s commitment to horticulture sector. The Indian Institute of Horticultural
corporate social responsibility. (Read the complete article) Research (IIHR) is gearing up to host the three-day
• Chapchar Kut, the grandest festival in Mizoram, resonated National Horticultural Fair 2024 at its Hessarghatta
throughout the state with vibrant traditional customs and premises, situated on the outskirts of Bengaluru. (Read the
jubilant festivities. Thousands of attendees converged upon complete article)
the Assam Rifles Ground – Lammual – in the heart of Aizawl • South Eastern Coalfield Limited’s (SECL) Gevra mine,
city, filling it to its capacity. The event featured a rich located in Chhattisgarh, is on the verge of becoming the
display of Mizo community traditions and culture, largest coal mine in Asia. The mine recently received
highlighted by traditional songs and captivating cultural
environmental clearance to enhance its production
dance performances, making it a day-long celebration to
capacity to 70 million tons per annum, up from the existing
remember. (Read the complete article)
52.5 million tons. (Read the complete article)
• In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has
• Kerala school has introduced Iris, a humanoid teacher,
launched an initiative to support young entrepreneurs
marking a significant milestone in the realm of educational
called “Mukhyamantri Yuva Udyami Vikas Abhiyan
technology. Developed in collaboration with Makerlabs
(MYUVA).” This program offers interest-free loans to help
Edutech Private Limited, Iris represents a pioneering effort
young people kickstart their business ventures with
projects valued up to Rs 5 lakh. (Read the complete article) to make learning more interactive, engaging, and
• Uttar Pradesh, under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi accessible. (Read the complete article)
Adityanath, has achieved a milestone by becoming the first
state in the country to issue five crore Ayushman cards.
This accomplishment underscores the state government’s
commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of every
citizen. (Read the complete article)
• Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu has
announced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at
empowering women in the state. The announcement
comes as part of the Congress party’s pre-election
promises, marking a pivotal step towards fulfilling its
commitments to the electorate. Chief Minister Sukhvinder
Sukhu unveiled the “Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh
Samman Nidhi Yojna,” a scheme designed to provide
financial support to women aged between 18 to 60 years.

• Kerala, renowned for its cultural richness and cinematic • Bichom, carved out of West and East Kameng, has been
brilliance, is set to make history in the digital entertainment declared the 27th district of Arunachal Pradesh. Chief
landscape with the launch of CSpace, India’s maiden Minister Pema Khandu led the inauguration ceremony,
government-backed Over-The-Top (OTT) platform. The marking a significant milestone for the region. (Read the
much-anticipated unveiling ceremony will take place at complete article)
Kairali Theatre on Thursday, March 7, at 9:30 am, with • The 3-day National Dairy Mela and Agricultural Exhibition
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan spearheading the event.
at Chaibasa in Jharkhand was inaugurated by Union
Minister of Tribal Affairs, Agriculture, and Farmers Welfare,
• Under the directions and guidance of Hon’ble Chief
Shri Arjun Munda. Organized by the National Dairy
Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, a significant
Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, this event marks the
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on
first of its kind in Jharkhand, aimed at fostering the
Tuesday, 5th March. This pivotal agreement took place
between CSIR Indian Institute of Petroleum, Dehradun, comprehensive development of livestock and agriculture in
and UCOST under the aegis of the “Adarsh Champawat” tribal areas. (Read Complete Article)
mission. The MoU signifies a collaborative effort to address • The state of Maharashtra has announced its fourth
environmental challenges and promote sustainable women’s policy, which aims to promote the holistic
development in the region. (Read the complete article) development of women. Aditi Tatkare, the Women and
• Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Child Development Minister, unveiled this policy on the
Adityanath, has announced a complete waiver of electricity eve of Women’s Day during the golden jubilee year of the
bills for private tube wells owned by farmers, effective Women’s Economic Development Corporation. (Read
from April 1, 2023. This decision, announced, aims to Complete Article)
alleviate the financial burden on the state’s farmers, • The Chief Minister of Assam, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma,
enhancing their agricultural productivity and overall well- performed the Bhumi Pujan ceremony for a 50 MW Solar
being. (Read the complete article)
Project in Sonitpur district. The project, being developed
• Karnataka state government, in a strategic alliance with
by SJVN Green Energy Limited (SGEL), holds promise for
the World Economic Forum (WEF), has announced the
bolstering Assam’s renewable energy sector and
establishment of a cutting-edge AI centre in the state. This
contributing to sustainable development. (Read Complete
collaboration formalized through a Letter of Intent signed
on February 29, aims to position Karnataka as a global hub Article)
for artificial intelligence, marking a significant step in • The Tamil Nadu government has launched the ‘Neengal
integrating the state into the global digital and Nalama’ (Are you fine?) scheme, a beneficiary outreach
technological landscape. (Read the complete article) program aimed at reviewing the implementation of
• Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on March 6 flagship schemes and addressing the grievances of the
took the priority corridor of the Agra Metro, for an public. The initiative was kickstarted by Minister of Rural
inaugural ride after Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually Development I. Periyasamy, with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin,
flagged off the project earlier in the day. The 6 km long other ministers, senior officials, and district collectors
priority corridor connects the iconic Taj Mahal’s eastern reaching out to beneficiaries across the state. (Read
gate to the Mankameshwar Temple station, providing a Complete Article)
vital transportation link for tourists and commuters alike. • Nayab Singh Saini, an influential leader from the Other
(Read the complete article) Backward Classes (OBC) community, has been appointed
• The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) as the new Chief Minister of Haryana. The decision was
has received the first set of six train coaches for its
announced by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday
upcoming driverless metro line, called the Yellow Line.
afternoon, shortly after Manohar Lal Khattar, the outgoing
This 18.8 km-long line, connecting RV Road and
Chief Minister and his entire cabinet stepped down. (Read
Bommasandra, will be the first in India to have a driverless
train system. (Read the complete article) Complete Article)
• At the 4th Semicon India FutureDesign Roadshow in • Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Tuesday, March
Kerala, Union Minister Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar lauded 12, 2024, announced that the Citizenship (Amendment)
the remarkable progress of India’s semiconductor industry Act (CAA), whose rules were notified by the Union Home
under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He Ministry on March 11, will not be implemented in the
emphasized the transformative role of technology and state. The decision comes amid growing concerns that the
semiconductor engineering in shaping India’s future. (Read CAA goes against minorities and Sri Lankan Tamils living in
the complete article) camps in Tamil Nadu. (Read Complete Article)
• The Geological Survey of India, State Unit: Andhra Pradesh, • Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated India’s
unveiled a representative Stratigraphic Column of the first indoor athletics stadium and indoor aquatic centre at
Cuddapah Supergroup in Vajrakarur Diamond Processing the Kalinga stadium in Bhubaneshwar. The Chief Minister
Camp, Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh. The ceremony also laid the foundation stone for a new indoor diving
took place on 10th March 2024 and was attended by centre in the stadium complex. (Read Complete Article)
prominent dignitaries including Shri Ch Venkateswara Rao, • The Election Commission has launched a special campaign
ADG & HoD, GSI, Southern Region, and Shri S. N. in Himachal Pradesh to boost voter turnout in 414 polling
Mahapatro, Deputy Director General, SU: Andhra Pradesh. stations with less than 60% voting during the last Lok
(Read Complete Article) Sabha polls. (Read Complete Article)
• For the first time, the district of Simdega in Jharkhand is • Jharkhand Governor CP Radhakrishnan has been given the
hosting the Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela, a national-level additional responsibility as the in-charge governor of
agricultural science fair. The event, organized by the Indian Telangana. This comes after Tamilisai Soundararajan
Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa (New Delhi), is being resigned from her constitutional post as the Telangana
held at the Albert Ekka Stadium from March 10th to 12th, Governor. (Read Complete Article)
marking a significant stride towards realizing the vision of a • The city of Begusarai in Bihar is the most polluted city in
prosperous farmer community. (Read Complete Article) the world, according to the World Air Quality Report 2023
• Odisha government led by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik released by IQAir, a Switzerland-based organization. The
has announced an additional 10 days of casual leave for report states that out of the top 100 most polluted places
women working in various government departments. This globally, 83 are from India. (Read Complete Article)
decision aims to recognize the multitude of responsibilities • The Uttar Pradesh police force is set to adopt the
women shoulder and provide them with greater flexibility advanced Trinetra app 2.0, a cutting-edge digital platform
to strike a better work-life balance. (Read Complete that promises to revolutionize crime prevention and
Article) investigation in the state. (Read Complete Article)
• The Maharashtra government has taken a historic step by • Tamil Nadu is set to witness a historic event as one of its
securing approval from the Jammu and Kashmir space startups, Agnikul Cosmos Private Limited, prepares
to launch its first rocket, Agnibaan Sub Orbital Technology
administration to acquire 2.5 acres of land in Ichgam, near
Demonstrator (SOrTeD), from the Satish Dhawan Space
Srinagar airport, for the construction of Maharashtra
Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This launch marks
Bhawan. This initiative symbolizes a proactive approach
several significant milestones in India’s space exploration
towards fostering cultural and touristic ties between the
journey. (Read Complete Article)
two regions. (Read Complete Article)
• Bihar Diwas 2024, celebrated on 22nd March 2024 in
• The Rajasthan government has decided to distribute free
India, holds immense historical and cultural significance for
seeds of millets and coarse grains to the state’s farmers.
the state of Bihar. It commemorates the founding of Bihar
This move aims to boost millet production in the state.
as a separate state in 1912, marking its separation from
the Bengal Presidency. The inception of Bihar Diwas dates
• Tamil Nadu dominates the illegal trade in shark body parts,
back to 2010, when the state government initiated the
comprising nearly 65% of seizures between January 2010
celebrations to honor Bihar’s 112th statehood anniversary.
and December 2022, as per a recent analysis by TRAFFIC
Since then, Bihar Diwas has evolved into a vibrant occasion,
and WWF-India. This alarming trend poses a significant
reflecting the essence of Bihar’s rich heritage and
threat to marine biodiversity, with Karnataka, Gujarat, traditions. (Read Complete Article)
Kerala, and Maharashtra also contributing to this illicit • Researchers have made an exciting discovery off the coast
trade. (Read Complete Article) of Kollam in Kerala. They have found a new species of
• The Maharashtra Cabinet has announced its decision to deep-sea isopod, which is a tiny crustacean that feeds on
rename Ahmednagar district as ‘Ahilya Nagar’. The fish. This new species belongs to the genus Brucethoa and
renaming is in honor of the 18th-century Maratha queen was found living inside the gill cavity of a fish called the
Ahilyabai Holkar. (Read Complete Article) Spinyjaw greeneye. (Read the complete article)
• Tamilisai Soundararajan, the Governor of Telangana, has • The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is conducting
resigned from her position on Monday, March 18, 2024. excavations at two mounds in Nachne village, located in
According to sources, she is likely to contest the Lok Sabha the Panna district of Madhya Pradesh. The goal of these
elections from the state of Tamil Nadu. (Read Complete excavations is to uncover what could potentially be the
Article) oldest temple in India. (Read the complete article)
• The Allahabad High Court’s Lucknow bench has declared easternmost district is Ballia, while Saharanpur is the
the UP Board of Madarsa Education Act of 2004 as northernmost, Sonbhadra the southernmost, and Shamli
unconstitutional. The court ruled that the act violated the the westernmost district. In this article, we will get to know
principle of secularism, as well as several articles of the about the village of “Choti Kashi” in Uttar Pradesh. (Read
Constitution, including Articles 14, 21, and 21-A. the complete article)
Additionally, the court found that the act also contravened • Gujarat’s Minister of State for Education, Praful
Section 22 of the University Grants Commission Act of Pansheriya, launched the online learning platform Shiksha
1956. (Read the complete article) Reform in Surat. The event was attended by noted
• Uttar Pradesh boasts of being the state with the most educationist Deepak Rajguru, trustees, principals, Kimmo
districts in India, totaling 75 districts divided into 18 Nikkanen from Finland’s Kajaani University of Applied
divisions. Additionally, it comprises 822 development Sciences, and educationist Antti Isovita. (Read the
blocks, 17 municipal corporations, and 351 tehsils. The complete article)
Schemes and Committees

• Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has announced • The Indian Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra
the launch of the Indiramma Housing Scheme starting Modi, has greenlit the ambitious IndiaAI mission, allocating
March 11. The scheme aims to provide housing solutions to a substantial budget of Rs. 10,371.92 crore. This initiative
the economically disadvantaged segments of society. (Read aligns with the vision of bolstering AI innovation within
the complete article) India and leveraging AI for the nation’s advancement. The
mission aims to establish a robust AI ecosystem through a
• During DefConnect 2024 in New Delhi on March 4, 2024,
strategic public-private partnership approach. (Read the
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh unveiled the Acing
complete article)
Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX
• The NAMASTE Scheme, a joint initiative by the Ministry of
(ADITI) scheme. The scheme aims to promote innovations Social Justice and Empowerment and the Ministry of
in critical and strategic defence technologies, providing Housing and Urban Affairs, aims to eliminate manual
start-ups with significant grants for research and engagement of sanitation workers in hazardous sewer and
development. (Read the complete article) septic tank cleaning operations. Implemented by the
• Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren has launched a NSKFDC for three years, the scheme prioritizes the safety
pioneering initiative, the ‘Vidhwa Punarvivah Protsahan and well-being of workers with a budget of 349.73 crores.
Yojana’ (Widow Remarriage Incentive Scheme). This (Read the complete article)
scheme, a first in India, aims to support and encourage • Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually launched the
‘Mahtari Vandan Yojana’ in Chhattisgarh from Kashi, Uttar
widows to embark on a new journey of companionship by
Pradesh. The scheme aims to provide financial assistance to
providing a financial incentive of Rs 2 lakh to those who
women in the state. PM Modi disbursed the first
choose to remarry. (Read the complete article)
installment of Rs 1,000 to 70,12,417 women in
• Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Chhattisgarh. The state government has allocated Rs
Distribution, Commerce and Industry, and Textiles, Shri 655.57 crore for this purpose. (Read Complete Article)
Piyush Goyal, launched the ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ (Digital • The Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of
Gateway) of the Warehousing Development and Chemicals and Fertilizers, introduces the Revamped
Regulatory Authority (WDRA) in New Delhi. This initiative is Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance
poised to become a cornerstone in India’s journey to Scheme to enhance industry capabilities and align with
becoming a developed nation, ‘Viksit Bharat’, by 2047, with global standards. Its approval follows a thorough review by
agriculture as its foundational pillar. (Read the complete the Scheme Steering Committee, considering the revised
article) Schedule-M of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rule, 1945. (Read
Complete Article)
• The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the ‘Pradhan
Modi, has sanctioned the Uttar Poorva Transformative
Mantri Samajik Utthan and Rozgar Adharit Jankalyan’
Industrialization Scheme, 2024 (UNNATI – 2024). This
(PM-SURAJ) national portal during an event organized by
scheme, spearheaded by the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The portal
Industry, aims to invigorate industrial development in the signifies the government’s commitment to extending credit
North East Region, fostering economic growth and job support and empowering one lakh entrepreneurs from
creation. (Read the complete article) disadvantaged communities. (Read Complete Article)

• NITI Aayog launched the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative under event called KIRTI (Khelo India Rising Talent Identification)
its Aspirational Blocks Programme on March 13, 2024. This in Chandigarh. This nationwide programme, under the
initiative aims to bolster local economies and promote Khelo India mission, aims to identify talented athletes
grassroots entrepreneurship, ultimately fostering self- between the ages of 9 and 18 years, currently enrolled in
reliance and sustainable growth. (Read Complete Article) schools across the country. (Read Complete Article)
• The Ministry of Heavy Industries, Government of India, in • The Tamil Nadu government has agreed to implement the
collaboration with the Department of Expenditure, Ministry PM SHRI Schools (PM Schools for Rising India) scheme by
of Finance, introduces the Electric Mobility Promotion signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the
Scheme 2024 (EMPS 2024). This scheme aims to expedite Ministry of Education, Government of India. This initiative
the uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) within the country, aims to enhance the quality of education in the state and
fostering a sustainable and eco-friendly transportation align with the objectives of the National Education Policy
ecosystem while bolstering the EV manufacturing sector. 2020. (Read Complete Article)
(Read Complete Article) • In response to the urgent need to protect the endangered
• Bank of Baroda, one of India’s leading public sector banks, Great Indian Bustard (GIB) population from extinction
has announced the launch of the bob Earth Green Term caused by collisions with high-powered power cables in
Deposit Scheme. The scheme aims to raise deposits that Gujarat and Rajasthan, the Supreme Court of India has
will be used to finance eligible environment-friendly taken decisive action. A bench led by Chief Justice of India
projects and sectors, fostering India’s transition to a green DY Chandrachud, JB Pardiwala, and Manoj Misra has
and sustainable economy. (Read Complete Article) appointed an expert committee to address this critical issue
• The Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Shri while balancing conservation efforts with renewable
Anurag Singh Thakur, has inaugurated a unique talent hunt energy goals. (Read the complete article)
Agreement/Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

• In a recent development, India and Nepal have bolstered for Deep Tech Research & Development” to drive
their financial cooperation, with a focus on digital innovation in the fintech sector. (Read the complete
payments. This initiative aims to streamline cross-border article)
transactions and enhance convenience for citizens of both • Airbus, a prominent name in the aviation industry, has
nations. (Read the complete article) announced a significant partnership with the esteemed
• Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog and Meta Indian Institute of Management Mumbai (IIM Mumbai) to
have joined forces to establish Frontier Technology Labs deliver high-quality aviation training to professionals. This
(FTLs) in strategically important schools. This collaboration collaboration marks a crucial step towards enhancing
aims to democratize access to future technologies and industry-ready skills among aspiring and working
foster innovation among students. (Read the complete individuals in the aviation sector. (Read the complete
article) article)
• India aims to enhance its strategic partnership with South • Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), in
Korea by expanding cooperation into new and critical collaboration with the Department of Sports, has
areas, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced introduced significant reforms in the recruitment,
during the 10th India-South Korea Joint Commission promotion, and incentive mechanisms for athletes. This
Meeting in Seoul. Co-chairing the meeting with his South initiative underscores the government’s commitment to
Korean counterpart, Cho Tae-yul, Jaishankar highlighted nurturing sporting talent and turning sports into a lucrative
the comprehensive and productive discussions held on career option. (Read the complete article)
various aspects, including defence, science and technology, • India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA)
trade, and people-to-people exchanges. (Read the comprising Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and
complete article) Liechtenstein have signed a Trade and Economic
• National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has forged a Partnership Agreement (TEPA). This modern and ambitious
strategic partnership with the Indian Institute of Science agreement marks India’s first Free Trade Agreement (FTA)
(IISc), Bangalore, to conduct joint research on Blockchain with four developed nations in Europe, offering significant
and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. This collaboration economic opportunities and promoting free trade and
aims to establish the “NPCI–IISc Centre of Excellence (CoE) economic integration. (Read Complete Article)

• NTPC and its renewable energy arm NGEL signed non- • The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Europol have
binding MoUs with Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam entered into a significant Working Arrangement aimed at
Limited (RVUNL) in Jaipur. These agreements represent a combating crime and fostering cooperation between the
significant stride towards improving the efficiency and cost- two agencies. This collaborative effort underscores the
effectiveness of the Chhabra Thermal Power Plant. The necessity of global partnerships in addressing modern-day
focus lies on exploring avenues for integrating supercritical challenges posed by transnational crime networks. (Read
units into the current infrastructure to modernize and Complete Article)
enhance power generation. (Read Complete Article) • Tech Mahindra and IBM have joined forces to inaugurate a
• The Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) under the Synergy Lounge in Singapore, aimed at accelerating digital
Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has entered a adoption for enterprises across the Asia-Pacific region. This
tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with collaboration seeks to leverage next-gen technologies to
drive innovation and offer unique solutions to various
Prasar Bharati, under the Ministry of Information &
industries. (Read Complete Article)
Broadcasting, and the Open Network for Digital Commerce
• State-owned power giant NTPC has finalized an agreement
(ONDC), a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) initiative of the
with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC)
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade,
to obtain foreign currency loans totaling USD 200 million
Ministry of Commerce & Industry. (Read Complete Article)
(JPY 30 billion or approximately Rs 1,650 crore). This
• On March 12, 2024, a significant milestone in the
financing arrangement signifies a significant step in NTPC’s
diplomatic and economic relations between India and the endeavor to augment its renewable energy initiatives.
Dominican Republic was achieved as the Protocol for the (Read the complete article)
establishment of the Joint Economic and Trade Committee • The Indian Parliamentary Delegation, led by Deputy
(JETCO) was signed at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh, held a
Dominican Republic in Santo Domingo. (Read Complete bilateral meeting with their Armenian counterparts on the
Article) sidelines of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) event in
• Grain commerce platform Arya.ag has collaborated with Geneva, Switzerland. (Read the complete article)
Shivalik Small Finance Bank to extend financial assistance • The SatCom Industry Association of India (SIA-India) and
to farmers, agro-processors, and micro-enterprises. This ABRASAT, the Brazilian Satellite Communications
partnership aims to facilitate over ₹200 crore in warehouse Association, have joined forces to propel advancements in
receipt financing in the current fiscal year, enhancing the space sector. This strategic partnership aims to foster
financial inclusion in the agricultural ecosystem. (Read collaboration and drive innovative ventures and
Complete Article) technological cooperation between India and Brazil. (Read
• India and Singapore have solidified their cooperation in the the complete article)
realm of law and dispute resolution through a • In a significant move poised to reshape India’s Aerospace,
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by New Space, and Defence (ASD) industry, the Indian
Singapore’s Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, Institute of Management Mumbai (IIM Mumbai) partners
and Second Minister for Law Mr. Edwin Tong SC and India’s with Starburst, a prominent European Aerospace, New
Minister for Law and Justice Mr. Arjun Ram Meghwal. This Space, and Defence (ASD) accelerator. This collaboration
agreement aims to bolster collaboration in areas such as aims to bolster the ASD startup ecosystem in India,
international commercial dispute resolution. (Read leveraging the resources and expertise of both entities.
Complete Article) (Read the complete article)
• The Department of Empowerment of Persons with
Disabilities (DEPwD) is collaborating with the Council of
Architecture (COA) to enhance inclusivity and accessibility
for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in public spaces and
buildings. This partnership signifies a significant
advancement in architectural practices and aims to raise
awareness about designing environments that
accommodate the needs of PwDs. (Read Complete Article)
• In a significant step towards promoting innovation and
advancing the automotive and electric vehicle (EV) sector,
the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) and the Indian
Institute of Technology, Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) have signed
a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). (Read Complete
Article)

New Appointments: International
• Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL), one of India’s • Devendra Jhajharia, a two-time Paralympic gold medalist,
leading petroleum companies, has recently announced its has been elected as the new President of the Paralympic
partnership with Olympic and World Javelin Champion Committee of India (PCI). He succeeds another renowned
Neeraj Chopra. Neeraj Chopra will serve as the brand para-athlete, Deepa Malik. (Read Complete Article)
ambassador for BPCL’s premium petrol variant, ‘Speed.’ • AS Rajeev was appointed as Vigilance Commissioner in the
This collaboration adds to BPCL’s list of esteemed brand Central Vigilance Commission by the Honourable President
ambassadors. (Read the complete article) of India on 9th February 2024. (Read Complete Article)
• The world of archaeology mourns the loss of one of its • Kishor Makwana has assumed the charge of Chairman of
most distinguished figures, Padmashree Dr. Arun Kumar the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) in
Sharma, who passed away at the age of 90 at his residence New Delhi. Shri Luv Kush Kumar has also taken charge as a
in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. Sharma’s career was marked by Member of the NCSC. (Read Complete Article)
significant contributions to Indian archaeology, including • Justice Satyendra Kumar Singh was appointed as the new
his pivotal role in the excavation of the Ram Janmabhoomi Lokayukta (anti-corruption ombudsman) of Madhya
Ayodhya site. (Read the complete article) Pradesh. He took the oath of office on Sunday night, with
• The Bihar government made a significant announcement, the ceremony being administered by Governor Mangubhai
appointing senior IAS officer Brajesh Mehrotra as the new Patel at Raj Bhavan. (Read Complete Article)
chief secretary of the state. This appointment underscores • The Indian Sugar & Bio-energy Manufacturers Association
the government’s commitment to efficient governance and (ISMA) has appointed Mr. Deepak Ballani as its new
administrative excellence. (Read the complete article) Director General. With over 25 years of extensive
• Sub-Inspector Suman Kumari has etched her name in experience in public policy, government affairs, and
history as the first woman sniper of the Border Security organizational management, Mr. Ballani brings a wealth of
Force (BSF). Her recent completion of an eight-week expertise to this pivotal role. (Read Complete Article)
intensive sniper course at the Central School of Weapons • Sanjay Kumar Singh is poised to step into the role of
and Tactics (CSWT) in Indore not only showcases her Director (Projects) at NHPC Limited, following a
exceptional abilities but also her pioneering spirit. Suman commendation by the Public Enterprises Selection Board
achieved the prestigious ‘instructor grade’, a testament to (PESB) panel on March 12. (Read Complete Article)
her proficiency and expertise. (Read the complete article) • The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led three-member
• Alok Rungta has been appointed as the Managing Director committee has appointed Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir
and CEO of Future Generali India Life Insurance, effective Singh Sandhu as new Election Commissioners. This
April 1st, pending regulatory approvals. He will succeed decision was conveyed to the media by Congress leader
Bruce De Broize, who currently holds the position until Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury after the committee’s meeting
March 31st. (Read the complete article) on March 14, 2024. (Read Complete Article)
• Slice, the popular mango-flavored drink, has recently • B Sairam has been appointed as the new Chairman and
announced the appointment of acclaimed actress Managing Director (CMD) of Northern Coalfields Limited
Nayanthara as its latest brand ambassador. (Read the (NCL). NCL is the Singrauli-based flagship Subsidiary of
complete article) Coal India Limited. Sairam has assumed the charge for this
• German technology giant SAP has made a significant post. (Read Complete Article)
leadership change in the Indian Subcontinent region. • Retired bureaucrat Navneet Kumar Sehgal has been
Manish Prasad has been appointed as the new president appointed as the new chairperson of the Prasar Bharati
and managing director for the region, succeeding Kulmeet Board. The position had been vacant for four years after A
Bawa. (Read the complete article) Surya Prakash retired in February 2020 after turning 70,
• Rajendra Prasad Goyal, Director (Finance) of NHPC, has the upper age limit for the post. (Read Complete Article)
recently assumed the additional charge of Chairman and • Kotak Mahindra Bank has appointed Jaideep Hansraj, the
Managing Director of NHPC Limited, a premier current MD and CEO of Kotak Securities, as the Group
hydropower company in India and a Schedule ‘A’ enterprise President – One Kotak, effective from April 1, 2024. This
under the Government of India. This transition marks a move signifies a strategic shift towards optimizing the
significant moment in the company’s leadership, bringing Group’s financial conglomerate model and enhancing
Goyal’s extensive experience and expertise to the customer offerings through collaborative efforts across
forefront. (Read the complete article) subsidiaries. (Read Complete Article)

• Senior bureaucrat Rahul Singh has been appointed as the • The Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB) has appointed Govind
chairperson of the Central Board of Secondary Education Dholakia, a Rajya Sabha MP from Gujarat, as its new
(CBSE), as part of a senior-level bureaucratic reshuffle chairman. This appointment comes a day after the previous
effected by the Centre. (Read Complete Article) chairman, Vallabhbhai Patel (Lakhani), resigned from his
• Poonawalla Fincorp, a notable NBFC, has chosen Arvind position. (Read Complete Article)
Kapil, a seasoned retail banking expert from HDFC Bank, as • Senior Indian diplomat Abhay Thakur has been appointed
its new Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer. Kapil as the country’s next ambassador or top envoy to
will commence his five-year term on June 24, 2024, Myanmar. This was announced by the Ministry of External
succeeding Abhay Bhutada, who opted for early Affairs (MEA) on March 26. (Read the complete article)
retirement. (Read Complete Article) • Eveready Industries India (EIIL), a leading battery brand,
has announced a partnership with Neeraj Chopra, the
• Vinay Kumar, an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer of the
reigning Olympic gold medalist and World no. 1 in men’s
1992 batch, has been named as the next Ambassador of
javelin throw, as its new brand ambassador. (Read the
India to Russia. Kumar is currently serving as the
complete article)
Ambassador of India to Myanmar. (Read Complete
• Hansha Mishra, an officer of the Indian Audit and
Article)
Accounts Service (IA&AS) from the 2010 batch, has been
• Leading FMCG company P&G India has announced the
appointed as Director in the Union Public Service
appointment of Kumar Venkatasubramanian as its new Commission (UPSC), Delhi. Her appointment comes after
Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective from May 1, 2024. she was recommended for central deputation by the
(Read Complete Article) Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. (Read the
• The Election Commission of India has made a significant complete article)
decision regarding the leadership of the West Bengal police • Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi has taken oath as the new judicial
force. Vivek Sahay has been replaced by Sanjay Mukherjee member of the Lokpal (ombudsman) on 27 March 2024.
as the new Director General of Police (DGP) for the state The oath was administered by Justice AM Khanwilkar, the
of West Bengal. This decision comes amidst a series of Chairman of the Lokpal of India. Central Vigilance
changes in key positions within the state administration, Commissioner Praveen Kumar Srivastava and senior
particularly in light of past incidents and the upcoming officers from CBI and Enforcement Directorate were
elections. (Read Complete Article) present. (Read the complete article)
• The Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) has elected M V Rao, • Sadanand Vasant Date, a distinguished 1990-batch IPS
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the officer from Maharashtra cadre, has been appointed as the
Central Bank of India, as its new Chairman. The decision new Director General of the NIA. Piyush Anand, a 1991-
was taken during the IBA’s managing committee meeting. batch IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, has been
(Read Complete Article) entrusted with the responsibility of heading the NDRF.
• Naveen Jindal, Chairman of Jindal Steel and Power, has Rajeev Kumar, an accomplished IPS officer from the
been unanimously elected as the President of the Indian Rajasthan cadre, has been appointed as the Director
Steel Association (ISA) by the apex committee, which is the General of the BPR&D. (Read the complete article)
governing body of the ISA. He took charge on Thursday, • In a significant development, the central government has
approved the appointment of Nidhu Saxena as the
succeeding Dilip Oommen, CEO of ArcelorMittal Nippon
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO)
Steel India. (Read Complete Article)
of the Bank of Maharashtra. This appointment will be
• Microsoft named British AI pioneer Mustafa Suleyman as
effective for a period of three years starting from 27 March
the head of its AI division. Suleyman, who co-founded
2024. (Read the complete article)
Google’s DeepMind, will now report directly to Microsoft
• The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres
CEO Satya Nadella. (Read Complete Article)
has appointed Kamal Kishore of India as the new Assistant
• Ashwani Kumar, Partner at Victor Forgings in Jalandhar, Secretary-General and Special Representative of the
has been unanimously elected as the new President of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction. He will lead
Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO). (Read the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction
Complete Article) (UNDRR). (Read the complete article)
• Mariam Mammen Mathew, CEO of Manorama Online, has • Justice Mohammad Yousuf Wani was administered the
been appointed as the Chairperson of the Digital News oath of office as an Additional Judge of the High Court of
Publishers Association (DNPA) for a two-year term starting Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The oath was
April 1, 2024. She succeeds Tanmay Maheshwari, Managing administered by Chief Justice N. Kotiswar Singh in Srinagar.
Director of Amar Ujala. (Read Complete Article) (Read the complete article)
• Arnab Banerjee, the Managing Director & CEO of CEAT comes after the previous leader, Panos Panay, left for
Ltd., has been elected as the new Chairman of the Amazon last year. (Read the complete article)
Automotive Tyre Manufacturers’ Association (ATMA). • Girija Subramanian, the current Chairperson and MD of
ATMA is the national industry body representing the Agriculture Insurance Company (AIC), has been selected as
automotive tyre sector in India. (Read the complete the next CMD of New India Assurance. Bhupesh Sushil
article) Rahul, a General Manager at AIC, has been chosen as the
• Microsoft has named Pavan Davuluri as the new head of new CMD of United India Insurance. (Read the complete
its combined Windows and Surface teams. This move article)
Sports Current Affairs

• The 10th edition of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) • Indian badminton stars Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag
concluded with Puneri Paltan emerging as champions for Shetty have won the BWF French Open men’s doubles title,
the first time, after a closely contested final against defeating Chinese Taipei’s Lee Jhe-Huei and Yang Po-
Haryana Steelers. The final score read 28-25 in favor of Hsuan in the final. (Read Complete Article)
Puneri Paltan, with the match taking place on March 1. • Yashasvi Jaiswal, the young Indian opener, has been
Pankaj Mohite shone brightly for Paltan, scoring nine raid named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for February
points, including a crucial super raid that proved to be a 2024. In the women’s category, Annabel Sutherland of
game-changer. (Read the complete article) Australia claimed the ICC Women’s Player of the Month
• The scenic town of Shimla has become the centre stage for award for February 2024. (Read Complete Article)
the first-ever Asian River Rafting Championships, officially • Mumbai won the Ranji Trophy 2024 after beating Vidarbha
opened on March 4th, 2024, by Chief Minister Sukhvinder by 169 runs at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. This was
Singh Sukhu. (Read the complete article) their 42nd Ranji Trophy title, showcasing their dominance
• B. Sai Praneeth, the decorated Indian badminton player, in Indian domestic cricket. Mumbai ended their 8-year
has announced his retirement from the sport. (Read the drought by winning the championship after last lifting the
complete article) title in the 2015-16 season. (Read Complete Article)
• Red Bull’s Max Verstappen clinched victory at the Saudi
• Spain’s women’s team secured a historic victory over
Arabian Grand Prix, starting from pole position. It marked
France, winning the first-ever UEFA Women’s Nations
Red Bull’s second consecutive one-two finish in the 2024
League with a convincing 2-0 triumph in Seville. The win
Formula One season. (Read Complete Article)
represents a significant achievement for Spain in the realm
• The V-Dem Institute’s Democracy Report 2024 highlights
of women’s football, further solidifying their position as a
India’s continued descent into electoral autocracy since its
dominant force in the sport. (Read the complete article)
downgrade in 2018. The report underscores the
• Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur grandly inaugurated
deterioration of democratic principles, particularly in the
the Sansad Khel Mahakumbh 3.0 at the Luhnu Cricket
areas of freedom of expression, media independence, and
Ground in Bilaspur on March 5, 2024. Chief Guests Indian
civil liberties. India’s status as one of the top standalone
cricket team captain Rohit Sharma and Indian cricket team autocracies further accentuates the gravity of its
coach Rahul Dravid graced the occasion as chief guests. democratic decline. (Read Complete Article)
(Read the complete article) • Australian wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Wade has
• Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas announced his decision to retire from red-ball cricket (first-
and Housing & Urban Affairs, inaugurated the 5th ONGC class cricket). (Read Complete Article)
Para Games, praising para-athletes for their unwavering • The Election Commission of India (ECI) and the Board of
determination. The event took place at Thyagaraj Stadium, Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) organized an exhibition
New Delhi with the presence of Shri Pankaj Jain, Secretary, cricket match to promote voter education and inclusivity.
Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, and senior officials The match was played between the Indian Deaf Cricket
from Oil & Gas PSUs. (Read the complete article) Association (IDCA) Team and the Delhi & District Cricket
• England’s James Anderson claimed his 700th Test wicket Association (DDCA) team on March 16, 2024, at Karnail
by dismissing India’s Kuldeep Yadav in Dharamsala on the Singh Stadium in New Delhi. (Read Complete Article)
morning of Day 3 of the final Test against India. This • In the final of the Indian Wells ATP tournament on Sunday,
historic milestone makes Anderson the third bowler to Carlos Alcaraz of Spain defeated Daniil Medvedev of Russia
reach the 700-wicket mark in Test cricket. (Read the in straight sets, with a score of 7-6 (7/5), 6-1. (Read
complete article) Complete Article)

• In the women’s long jump event at the 3rd Indian Open categories. The tournament witnessed the participation of
Jumps Competition, Nayana James from Kerala recorded a 612 boxers, including 337 boys and 275 girls. (Read the
personal best mark of 6.67m to secure the gold medal. complete article)
(Read Complete Article) • The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) team created history by
• Ace table tennis player Sharath Kamal will be the Indian posting a mammoth 277/3 against the Mumbai Indians
team’s flagbearer for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics. (MI) in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match in
The announcement was made by the Indian Olympic Hyderabad. This score surpassed the previous highest total
Association (IOA). (Read Complete Article) in the IPL of 263 runs, set by the Royal Challengers
• Indian star paddler G. Sathiyan has achieved a remarkable Bangalore (RCB) against Pune Warriors India in 2013. (Read
feat by becoming the first-ever Indian to win a men’s the complete article)
singles trophy at a WTT Feeder Series event. This historic • Indian paddler Sreeja Akula clinched the women’s singles
moment took place in Beirut, Lebanon, where Sathiyan title at the WTT Feeder Beirut II 2024 in Beirut, Lebanon.
triumphed over his compatriot Manav Thakkar with a 3-1 The world no. 47 Indian came from behind to secure a 6-
(6-11 11-7 11-7 11-4) victory in the final of the WTT Feeder 11, 12-10, 11-5, 11-9 victory over the lower-ranked Sarah D
Beirut 2024. (Read Complete Article) Nutte of Luxembourg in the final. (Read the complete
• Australian Grand Prix, Carlos Sainz of Ferrari emerged article)
victorious, marking a remarkable comeback just two weeks • Veteran Kenyan allrounder Collins Obuya has announced
after undergoing appendicitis surgery. The race was filled his retirement from cricket following Kenya’s defeat to
with drama, including the first retirement in two years for Uganda in the third-place play-off match at the African
Red Bull’s reigning world champion Max Verstappen.
Games. (Read the complete article)
• The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has appointed
• Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has etched his name in
former Indian men’s hockey team captain and goalkeeper
history by becoming the first Indian cricketer to score
PR Sreejesh and Chile’s Camila Caram as co-chairs of the
12,000 runs in the T20 format. Kohli accomplished this
FIH Athletes Committee. This announcement was made by
remarkable feat during the opening match of the 2024
the FIH on March 27, 2024. (Read the complete article)
Indian Premier League (IPL) between Chennai Super Kings
(CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA • IIT Madras is set to host the prestigious ‘6th Shaastra
Chidambaram Stadium. (Read the complete article) Rapid FIDE Rated Chess Tournament’ on March 30 and 31,
• In a historic move, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) 2024. The tournament, sanctioned by the International
will host a day-night Test match between the Australian Chess Federation (FIDE), will draw the participation of
and English women’s cricket teams. This will be the first esteemed players from across the globe, including
time a pink-ball Test is played at the iconic venue. The Grandmasters, International Masters, and Women
four-day match is scheduled from January 30 to February Grandmasters. (Read the complete article
2, 2025. (Read the complete article) • Sharfuddoula has created history by becoming the first
• Haryana clinched the team titles in both the boy’s and girls Bangladeshi umpire to be appointed to the ICC Elite Panel
categories with an impressive combined haul of 19 medals of Umpires. His appointment was confirmed following the
at the Boxing Sub Junior National Championship. Haryana International Cricket Council’s annual review and selection
showcased its dominance by finishing on top in both process. (Read the complete article)
Summits And Conferences

• A five-day exchange programme for faculty members of • The inaugural Bharat Steam Boiler Expo 2024 has officially
foreign service academies within the Bay of Bengal commenced in Guwahati, Assam, marking a significant
Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic milestone in India’s industrial journey. Launched with the
Cooperation (BIMSTEC) member states has commenced in objective of enhancing the growth and efficiency of sectors
Dhaka, marking the first of its kind. (Read the complete reliant on steam boilers, this three-day event has been
article) inaugurated by Sanjay Kishan, the state’s Labour and
• Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) is Employment Minister. (Read the complete article)
hosting the All India Research Scholars’ Summit (AIRSS) • India is set to host the prestigious World Telecom
2024 from 4th to 7th March 2024. Organized by the Standardization Assembly (WTSA) 2024, organized by the
Research Affairs Council of IIT Madras, this event promises International Telecommunication Union (ITU), along with
to be a gathering of minds from diverse disciplines across the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024. These events aim to
India, aiming to showcase and explore the latest foster global collaboration, drive telecom reforms, and
advancements in various research domains. (Read the showcase India’s technological prowess. (Read Complete
complete article) Article)

• The fourth edition of the Shanghai Cooperation 2024, followed by the physical mode in New Delhi on 1st
Organisation (SCO) Startup Forum convened in New Delhi and 2nd April 2024. The conference will be chaired by the
on March 19, 2024, with a focus on enhancing interactions Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Manoj Pande, and
among SCO Member States’ startups, fostering innovation, attended by senior military leadership, including Army
creating employment opportunities, and nurturing young Commanders participating virtually from their respective
talent. (Read Complete Article) Command Headquarters. (Read the complete article)
• India and Brazil recently held their inaugural ‘2+2’ defence • The METOC seminar ‘Meghayan-24’ was conducted by the
and foreign ministerial dialogue, marking a significant School of Naval Oceanology & Meteorology (SNOM) and
milestone in their bilateral relations. The talks aimed to the Indian Naval Meteorological Analysis Centre (INMAC) at
deepen cooperation across various sectors, emphasizing the Southern Naval Command on March 28, 2024. It was
energy, critical minerals, technology, and counter-
organized in commemoration of World Meteorological Day,
terrorism. (Read Complete Article)
with the theme ‘At the Frontline of Climate Action’ set by
• The Indian Army is organizing the first Army Commanders’
Conference for the year 2024 in a hybrid mode. The virtual the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) for 2024.
segment of the conference is scheduled for 28th March (Read the complete article)
Ranks and Reports News

• Bloomberg has announced the inclusion of India’s Fully • The United Nations Conference on Trade and
Accessible Route (FAR) bonds in its Emerging Market (EM) Development (UNCTAD) has released its Global Trade
Local Currency Government Index and related indices, with Update report, outlining the state of global trade in 2023
a phased approach over ten months starting January 31, and projections for 2024. Despite a 3% dip in global trade
2025. This follows JP Morgan’s similar move earlier, to $31 trillion in 2023, a rebound is expected in 2024 amid
signaling increased foreign investment potential in Indian geopolitical uncertainties and logistical challenges. (Read
government securities. (Read the complete article) Complete Article)
• According to the latest data from the Stockholm • In a landmark shift, Mumbai has overtaken Beijing as
International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India was Asia’s billionaire capital, according to the latest report
the world’s top arms importer for the period 2019-2023. from the Shanghai-based Hurun Research Institute. This
India’s arms imports witnessed a 4.7% increase compared monumental achievement reflects Mumbai’s burgeoning
to the 2014-2018 period. (Read Complete Article) economic landscape and underscores India’s rising
• Dr. Jitendra Singh unveiled the report “A Decade of
prominence in global wealth distribution. (Read the
Science – Technology Panorama for Aatmanirbhar Bharat”
complete article)
at Vigyan Bhavan. Under the leadership of Prof. Ajay
• In the latest Brand Finance Insurance 100, 2024 report,
Kumar Sood, the (Office of Principal Scientific Advisor)
Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) solidifies its
OPSA to the Government of India, in collaboration with
position as the strongest insurance brand worldwide,
FAST India, has compiled a comprehensive overview of
maintaining a stable brand value of Rs 816 billion. With a
India’s technological advancements over the past decade in
Brand Strength Index score of 88.3 and an AAA brand
this report. (Read Complete Article)
strength rating, LIC showcases its unparalleled prominence
• India’s position on the DHL Global Connectedness Index
has seen a notable rise, reflecting its burgeoning role in the in the industry. (Read the complete article)
global economy. From ranking 67th in 2022, India has • The International Labour Organization (ILO) in
advanced to the 62nd position in 2023, underscoring its collaboration with the Institute of Human Development
increasing significance in the realm of globalization. (Read (IHD) has released the ‘India Employment Report 2024,’
Complete Article) shedding light on the challenges faced by the Indian job
• The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) released market as the financial year comes to a close. Chief
its State of the Global Climate 2023 report, revealing Economic Adviser V. Anantha Nageswaran unveiled the
unprecedented levels of climate change indicators. These report, which outlines significant shifts in employment
indicators underscore the urgent need for global action to patterns and trends in education levels among the
mitigate the impacts of climate change. (Read Complete unemployed, spanning two decades up to 2022. (Read the
Article) complete article)

Important Days
Date Day & Theme
March 4 National Safety Day
March 5 International Day for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Awareness
7th March Jan Aushadhi Diwas
March 8th International Women’s Day | Theme: Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress
• CISF Raising Day
March 10
• International Day of Women Judges | Theme: Women in Justice, women for justice
11 March World Plumbing Day
World Kidney Day | Theme: Kidney Health for All – Advancing Equitable Access to Care and Optimal Medication
14th March
Practice
• International Day of Action for Rivers
March 14
• Pi Day
March 15 World Consumer Rights Day
March 16th National Vaccination Day
March 18th Ordnance Factories Day
• International Day of Happiness
March 20th • World Sparrow Day
• World Oral Health Day
• International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination | Theme: A Decade of Recognition, Justice, and
21st March Development: Implementation of the International Decade for People of African Descent
• World Forestry Day| Theme: Forests and Innovation: New Solutions for a Better World.”
March 21 World Down Syndrome Day
March 22 World Water Day | Theme: Water for Peace
• World Meteorological Day
March 23rd
• Shaheed Diwas, or Martyr’s Day
• World Tuberculosis (TB) Day
March 24th • International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of
Victims
March 27 World Theatre Day
March 28th World Piano Day 2024
March 29th Good Friday
March 30th International Day of Zero Waste
Defence Current Affairs

• The Indian Navy is set to inaugurate a new naval base, INS Seahawks squadron will be designated as INAS 334,
Jatayu, on Minicoy Island, marking a significant step in symbolizing a new era in naval aviation for the country.
bolstering security infrastructure in the strategically vital These helicopters are part of a 24-aircraft Foreign Military
Lakshadweep Islands. Scheduled for March 6, the Sales (FMS) contract inked with the US government in
commissioning ceremony will be graced by Admiral R Hari February 2020. (Read the complete article)
Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, underscoring the • Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the new
importance of this development. (Read the complete Administrative & Training building at the Naval War
article) College (NWC), Goa on March 5, 2024. The modern edifice,
• The Indian Navy is poised to achieve a significant milestone named the ‘Chola’, pays homage to the mighty maritime
on March 6, 2024, with the commissioning of the MH 60R empire of the Chola dynasty of ancient India. The event
marked a significant milestone in the history of the NWC,
Seahawk helicopter at INS Garuda, Kochi. This induction
reinforcing its commitment to excellence in military
marks a crucial juncture in India’s defense modernization
education and nurturing maritime thought. (Read the
efforts, further bolstering its maritime capabilities. The
complete article)
• The Indian Navy took a significant stride in fortifying its • In a significant stride towards gender equality and
operational prowess with the commissioning of its new inclusivity, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) has
base, INS Jatayu, at Minicoy island of Lakshadweep. This emerged as a frontrunner among central paramilitary
strategic move aims to enhance the Navy’s capabilities and forces in terms of female representation. This
reach in the vital Indian Ocean region, reinforcing its efforts achievement marks a notable departure from the
in anti-piracy and anti-narcotics operations in the Western traditional male-dominated landscape within such
Arabian Sea. (Read the complete article) organizations. With women now constituting a remarkable
• The three forces of India – Army, Navy, and Air Force – are 10 percent of its personnel, the RPF has set a new
benchmark in gender diversity within central paramilitary
going to conduct the biggest exercise called ‘Bharat-Shakti’
forces. (Read Complete Article)
at Asia’s largest field firing range located in Jaisalmer
• The Indian Navy has finally got its own dedicated
district of Rajasthan. PM Modi’s Likely Visit Prime Minister
headquarters building. The newly constructed Nausena
Narendra Modi may visit Pokhran on March 12, 2024, to
Bhawan located at Delhi Cantonment was formally
witness this show of strength by the Indian Armed Forces. inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on March
(Read the complete article) 15th, 2024. (Read Complete Article)
• The arrival of the US Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf at Port • An Indian Army contingent has departed for Seychelles
Blair signals the commencement of ‘Sea Defenders-2024,’ today to participate in the Tenth edition of the Joint
a joint exercise between the United States Coast Guard Military Exercise “LAMITIYE-2024” between the Indian
(USCG) and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). Scheduled for Army and Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF). The exercise
March 9-10, 2024, this drill reflects the deepening strategic will be conducted in Seychelles from 18-27 March 2024.
ties between the two nations and aims to enhance (Read Complete Article)
maritime safety and uphold a rules-based order in the Indo- • A joint military exercise called Tiger Triumph-24 between
Pacific region. (Read the complete article) India and the United States started on March 18 and will
• Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) continue until March 31. This exercise is taking place on the
has successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the Eastern Seaboard (East Coast) of India. The main purpose
locally developed Agni-5 missile with multiple of this exercise is to improve cooperation between the two
independently targetable re-entry vehicle (MIRV) countries’ armed forces for humanitarian assistance and
technology. This new capability allows the weapon system disaster relief operations. (Read Complete Article)
• The Indian Army has set up a specialized technology unit
to deliver multiple nuclear warheads against different
called Signals Technology Evaluation and Adaptation
targets spread across hundreds of kilometers, further
Group (STEAG) to research and evaluate next-generation
enhancing India’s strategic deterrence capability. The test,
communication technologies. (Read Complete Article)
codenamed “Mission Divyastra” (divine weapon), propels
• The Indian defence industry is expanding its reach to the
India into an exclusive league of countries that possess the
Caribbean region. The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) plans
capability to deploy MIRV missile systems, including the to purchase two aircraft from India with a loan of $23.27
United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and million from the Export-Import Bank of India. (Read
China. (Read Complete Article) Complete Article)
• Coinciding with International Women’s Day and the 40th • The Indian Army has raised its first squadron, the 451
anniversary of INAS 318, the Andaman & Nicobar Aviation Squadron, to operate the newly acquired AH-64E
Command achieved a significant milestone by conducting Apache attack helicopters. The squadron was formally
its first-ever all-women maritime surveillance mission. established on March 15 at Jodhpur. (Read Complete
This landmark event underscores the commitment to Article)
gender equality and recognizes the indispensable role of • The Indian Navy is all set to participate in the second
women in national defense. (Read Complete Article) edition of the India-Mozambique-Tanzania Trilateral
• The Indian Navy recently took part in a major maritime Exercise (IMT TRILAT-2024), a joint maritime exercise
exercise called Exercise Cutlass Express – 24 (CE-24). This scheduled from 21-29 March 2024. The Indian Naval Ships
exercise was held in Port Victoria, Seychelles from 26 INS Tir and INS Sujata will represent India in this trilateral
February to 08 March 2024. (Read Complete Article) exercise. (Read Complete Article)
• On 13th March 2024, a significant milestone was achieved • The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has
achieved a significant milestone with the successful landing
in the Indian Navy’s shipbuilding program with the launch
of Pushpak, India’s first Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV),
of ‘Agray’ and ‘Akshay’, the 5th and 6th ships of the 08 x
during the RLV-LEX-02 landing experiment at the
ASW (Anti-Submarine Warfare) Shallow Water Craft
Aeronautical Test Range in Chitradurga on March 22, 2024.
(SWC) Project. These ships are being built by M/S Garden
This accomplishment marks a continuation of ISRO’s
Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata for the success in space exploration and technology advancement.
Indian Navy. (Read Complete Article) (Read Complete Article)
• In response to escalating tensions along the northern Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Electronics. (Read the
borders with China, the Indian Army has initiated complete article)
significant enhancements to its air defence capabilities. • The second edition of the India-Mozambique-Tanzania
Central to this strategic maneuver is the deployment of Trilateral Exercise, IMT TRILAT 24, concluded successfully
cutting-edge Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction in Nacala, Mozambique on March 28th, 2024. This week-
long exercise aimed to strengthen maritime cooperation
Systems (IDD&IS), developed domestically in collaboration and interoperability among the navies of India,
between the Defence Research and Development Mozambique, and Tanzania. (Read the complete article)
Awards News
• Dr. Pradeep Mahajan, the Founder and Chairman and • Delhi Airport has once again asserted its dominance in the
Managing Director (CMD) of StemRx Hospital and Research aviation sector by securing the prestigious title of ‘Best
Centre, along with StemRx Bioscience Solutions, has been Airport’ in the Asia-Pacific region for the sixth consecutive
awarded the prestigious Maharashtra Bhushan Award year. This accolade, bestowed by the Airport Service
2024. (Read the complete article) Quality (ASQ) Awards, reaffirms Delhi Airport’s
• On the occasion of the 48th Foundation Day of the Indian commitment to excellence and leadership in providing top-
Civil Accounts Service, the Ministry of Information & notch services to passengers. (Read Complete Article)
Broadcasting has been honored with the Award for Best • Riken Yamamoto, a Japanese architect from Yokohama,
has been named the winner of the 2024 Pritzker
Performance in Accounts during the Financial Year 2023-
Architecture Prize, widely regarded as the highest honour
24. This prestigious accolade signifies the Ministry’s
in the field of architecture. (Read Complete Article)
outstanding contribution and commitment to financial
• The Praemium Erasmianum Foundation has awarded the
excellence. (Read the complete article)
Erasmus Prize 2024 to the Indian writer Amitav Ghosh. He
• Legendary golfer Tiger Woods has been selected to receive
receives this prestigious honour for his passionate
the Bob Jones Award, the highest honour bestowed by the contribution to the theme “imagining the unthinkable,” in
United States Golf Association (USGA). This prestigious which he explores the unprecedented global crisis of
award recognizes Woods’ dedication to sportsmanship, his climate change through his literary works. (Read Complete
respect for the traditions of the game, and his significant Article)
charitable endeavors. (Read the complete article) • Mr. Srinivasan Swamy, currently serving as the chairman
• Yatin Bhaskar Duggal, a promising talent from Haryana, and managing director of RK Swamy Ltd, was honored at
has emerged triumphant as the winner of the esteemed the 45th IAA World Congress in Penang, Malaysia.
National Youth Parliament Festival, 2024. The Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak presented him with
announcement came during the conclusive session held in the esteemed IAA Golden Compass Award, recognizing his
New Delhi, where Duggal was awarded the first prize for his significant contributions to the global marketing,
exceptional performance. (Read the complete article) advertising, and media industries. (Read Complete Article)
• Sahitya Akademi, the esteemed National Academy of • President Droupadi Murmu was conferred with the
Letters in India, is marking its 70th anniversary this year, honorary degree of Doctor of Civil Law by the University of
and in honor of this milestone, the annual ‘Sahityotsav’ has Mauritius. This prestigious honor demonstrates the depth
transformed into the world’s largest literary festival. (Read of bilateral ties between India and Mauritius. (Read
the complete article) Complete Article)
• The prestigious Chameli Devi Jain Award 2024 for
• Renowned filmmaker Zoya Akhtar and British Indian chef
Outstanding Woman Media Person of the Year has been
Asma Khan were honored at the annual ‘India-UK
given jointly to two remarkable journalists: Greeshma
Achievers’ awards in London. The event celebrated
Kuthar – Independent Journalist and Ritika Chopra – Indian
Akhtar’s acclaimed work in cinema and Khan’s
Express.
contributions to culinary arts. (Read the complete article)
• Ratan Tata, former chairman of Tata Sons, has been
• India has been awarded the prestigious ‘Measles and bestowed with the prestigious PV Narasimha Rao
Rubella Champion’ Award by The Measles and Rubella Memorial Award. He received the award for his
Partnership. This award recognizes India’s exemplary outstanding philanthropic contributions. The award
efforts in preventing measles and rubella diseases. (Read ceremony took place in Mumbai on March 15, 2024. (Read
the complete article) Complete Article)

• Uday Bhatia and Manasi Gupta from India were honored • The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been
with the prestigious ‘Diana Memorial Award’ on 14 March honored with the prestigious Aviation Week Laureates
2024. (Read Complete Article) Award for its remarkable achievements in the
• Thodur Madabusi Krishna, a renowned Carnatic musician, Chandrayaan-3 mission. Sripriya Ranganathan, Deputy
has been chosen as the Sangita Kalanidhi awardee for Ambassador at the Indian Embassy in the US, accepted the
2024. This award, considered the Oscar equivalent for award on behalf of ISRO. (Read Complete Article)
Carnatic music, is given away by the Music Academy in • Bina Agarwal and James Boyce have been awarded the
Chennai. (Read Complete Article) first “Global Inequality Research Award” for their
• Noted Malayalam poet and author Prabha Varma has significant contributions to understanding global
been selected for the prestigious 33rd Saraswati Samman inequalities, specifically in the areas of social and
for the year 2023. He won the award for his novel in verse environmental inequalities. The laureates will be invited to
‘Roudra Sathwikam’ published in 2022. (Read Complete receive their awards and present an overview of their work
Article) at conferences in Paris in the fall and spring of 2024. These
• The Raksha Mantri Trophy for the Best and Second Best conferences will be organized in conjunction with Sciences
Command Hospitals of the Armed Forces Medical Services Po’s Social-Ecological Transitions (SET) initiative. (Read
(AFMS) for the year 2022 was awarded on 19th March Complete Article)
2024 in New Delhi. The Command Hospital (Southern • The International Astronomical Union (IAU), a global
Command), Pune was judged as the Best Command organization responsible for naming celestial objects, has
Hospital, while the Command Hospital (Central bestowed a rare honour upon an Indian scientist. Professor
Command), Lucknow was the Second Best for 2022. (Read Jayant Murthy, an esteemed astrophysicist, has been
Complete Article) recognized for his remarkable contributions to the field by
• Dr. Uma Rele, the esteemed Principal of Nalanda Nritya having an asteroid named after him – (215884)
Kala Mahavidyalaya in Mumbai, has been conferred with Jayantmurthy. (Read the complete article)
the prestigious Maharashtra Gaurav Award. The honour • The Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters has
was bestowed upon her by Maharashtra Industrial Minister awarded the 2024 Abel Prize to Michel Talagrand of the
Uday Sawant and Minister Deepak Vasant Kesarkar in French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS),
recognition of her invaluable contributions to the realm of Paris, France. Talagrand received the prestigious prize “for
Indian classical dance, particularly Bharata Natyam. (Read his groundbreaking contributions to probability theory
Complete Article) and functional analysis, with outstanding applications in
• Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has created history mathematical physics and statistics.” (Read the complete
by becoming the first non-Bhutanese to receive the ‘Order article)
of the Druk Gyalpo’, Bhutan’s highest civilian award. He • At a glittering event recently held in Noida, organized by
received this prestigious honour from Bhutan’s King Jigme The Times Group, Vijay Jain, the Managing Director of Star
Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck during his two-day state visit Estate, was awarded the prestigious Times Power Icon
to Thimphu. The ‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo’ is a lifetime 2024 Award. The event celebrated and honoured top
achievement award and is considered the pinnacle of industry leaders, gracing the occasion with the presence of
Bhutan’s honour system. Only four eminent personalities industry leaders and celebrities, including Cine icon Ada
have received this award since its institution. (Read Sharma, who presented the award to Vijay Jain. (Read the
Complete Article) complete article)
Science and Technology

• Google’s DeepMind team introduces “Genie,” a Cosmodrome. This event underscores the technological
groundbreaking AI platform poised to transform the collaboration between Iran and Russia, occurring against a
gaming industry and creative endeavors. This innovative backdrop of heightened scrutiny and concern from
project signifies a fusion of cutting-edge technology and Western nations. (Read the complete article)
imaginative potential, offering the capability to craft • In an exciting development for space exploration,
interactive 2D video games from single image prompts or astronomers affiliated with the International Astronomical
text descriptions. (Read the complete article) Union have identified three new moons in the outer
reaches of our solar system. These celestial bodies, with
• Iran’s venture into space exploration and satellite
two orbiting Neptune and one around Uranus, were
deployment continues with the launch of the “Pars 1” detected through the use of powerful land-based
satellite, facilitated by Russia from the Vostochny telescopes across the globe. (Read the complete article)

• Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra • Google has partnered with the Election Commission of
Singh inaugurated a pioneering technical center in India (ECI) to provide authoritative information on voting
Ahmedabad, representing a significant advancement in processes for the upcoming general elections. Through
India’s space sector. Established by the Indian National Google Search and YouTube videos, voters will be able to
Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), access critical details on how to register and vote, as well as
this center aims to revolutionize private sector involvement information about candidates. (Read Complete Article)
in space technology development and testing. (Read the • SpaceX’s Starship rocket, aimed at lunar missions and
complete article) beyond, faced another setback as it disintegrated during its
• MethaneSAT, a groundbreaking initiative spearheaded by third test flight. Despite achieving several engineering
the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), heralds a new era milestones, the failure highlights challenges in its
in environmental monitoring. Designed to address the development. The Starship, consisting of the cruise vessel
elusive yet critical issue of methane emissions, atop the Super Heavy rocket booster, launched from
MethaneSAT promises to revolutionize how policymakers Starbase near Boca Chica Village, Texas. (Read Complete
Article)
and industries tackle greenhouse gas pollution. With its
• IIT Delhi recently announced a collaboration with Israel
advanced technology and global reach, MethaneSAT aims
Aerospace Industries (IAI), a significant step in applied
to independently verify industry reports and pinpoint
research. This partnership, emphasized in an official
methane hotspots, thereby empowering stakeholders to
statement from IIT Delhi, reflects IAI’s commitment to
take decisive action. (Read the complete article)
corporate social responsibility (CSR) in India, aiming to
• Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Kerala, Union
promote innovation and technological advancement
Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar, responsible for Electronics
through joint projects, training initiatives, and research
& IT, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, and Jal Shakti, consultancy. (Read Complete Article)
articulated India’s potential as a global semiconductor hub.
• In October of this year, NASA will embark on its Europa
Chandrasekhar emphasized the imperative of designing Clipper mission, aiming to explore Jupiter’s moon Europa
chips and IPs for diverse industries, outlining a roadmap for in search of signs of life. Scientists are particularly
entrepreneurs in Trivandrum and Kerala to lead the interested in a potential salty lake hidden beneath its icy
innovation drive. (Read the complete article) crust. As part of this mission, NASA plans to send a unique
• ISRO chief S Somnath informed at the National Space message to Europa, symbolizing human curiosity and
Science Symposium (NSSS 2024) that the Indian Space creativity. (Read Complete Article)
Research Organization (ISRO) is preparing to launch the • Researchers have uncovered a monumental discovery on
next lunar mission Chandrayaan-4. This mission will Mars—a colossal volcano named Noctis Volcano. Standing
include five spacecraft modules. (Read the complete at an impressive 29,600 feet tall and stretching
article) approximately 450 kilometers in width, this massive
• The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Shri volcano lies just south of Mars’ equator within the Eastern
Narendra Modi, has approved a new $1.24 billion Noctis Labyrinthus region. The finding, made possible by
investment for the IndiaAI mission. This initiative aims to data from a suite of missions including NASA’s Mariner 9,
create an all-Indian AI ecosystem from scratch, bolstering Viking Orbiter 1 and 2, Mars Global Surveyor, Mars
India’s technological prowess and fostering innovation in Odyssey, Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, and the ESA’s Mars
AI. (Read the complete article) Express, unveils a hidden geological marvel. (Read
• Researchers have made an exciting discovery – a previously Complete Article)
unknown scorpion species with 8 eyes and 8 legs in • With the Lok Sabha elections approaching in India, Meta
Thailand’s Kaeng Krachan National Park. (Read Complete unveils its strategy to tackle the growing threat of AI-
Article) generated fake content that could influence the electoral
• MoRD (Ministry of Rural Development) and IIT Delhi have process. In response to concerns raised by the Election
Commission of India regarding the spread of
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to
misinformation, Meta announces its comprehensive plan
collaborate on geospatial technology and artificial
to safeguard the integrity of the elections. (Read Complete
intelligence (AI) for rural development. The partnership
Article)
aims to leverage technology to enhance the effectiveness
• Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) has developed
and transparency of rural development initiatives. The
SAKHI, a revolutionary app aimed at aiding astronauts
MoU signifies a collaborative effort to address rural
during the Gaganyaan space flight mission. SAKHI, or
challenges through technological solutions, setting a
Space-borne Assistant and Knowledge Hub for Crew
precedent for effective collaboration between academia
Interaction, offers indispensable support across various
and government. (Read Complete Article) critical aspects of the mission. (Read Complete Article)
• The European Space Agency’s Gaia space telescope has recombinant vector vaccine specifically designed to
made a groundbreaking discovery, uncovering two ancient combat the classical swine fever virus in pigs and wild
streams of stars named Shiva and Shakti. Led by Khyati boars. It fills a significant gap in India’s vaccine landscape.
Malhan of the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA) (Read the complete article)
in Germany, this revelation significantly enhances our • The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will
understanding of the Milky Way’s origins. (Read Complete conduct the Space Science and Technology Awareness
Article) Training (START) 2024 program during April and May. ISRO
• The Indian Institute of Technology-Guwahati (IIT-G) has is inviting Expression of Interest (EOI) from educational
transferred a first-of-its-kind vaccine technology to institutes, universities, and colleges within India offering
BioMed Pvt. Ltd., a company specializing in vaccine UG and PG courses in physical sciences and technology to
manufacturing. This revolutionary technology involves a host START-2024. (Read the complete article)
Books & Authors

• The launch of “The Gems of Indian Art”, a comprehensive first Magahi novel, ‘Phool Bahadur’. The translation was
documentation of Harish Khullar’s extensive collection of done by Abhay K, a renowned writer from Nalanda, Bihar.
20th-century Indian modern and contemporary art. This (Read the complete article)
near-300-page book was unveiled by Ministers Shri Nitin • S. Raman’s autobiography, “From A Car Shed To The Corner
Gadkari, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, and Shri S.P.S. Baghel, Room & Beyond,” offers a first-person account of his
marking a pivotal moment in India’s art scene. (Read the remarkable journey from a clerk at SBI to becoming the
complete article) Chairman and Managing Director of Canara Bank and a
• Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and full-time Member of SEBI. The book explores the intricate
Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala, release a book and video dance between personal integrity, professional
titled “Sagar Parikrama” at the Engineering Association in challenges, and systemic issues in the financial world.
Rajkot, Gujarat. The event graced by the presence of the (Read the complete article)
Union Minister for States of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, • The inaugural Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction has
and Dairying, Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Balyan, Dr. L. Murugan, announced its shortlist of six books, including “Code
and other dignitaries. (Read Complete Article) Dependent: Living in the Shadow of AI” by Indian-British
• The Dibrugarh University International Literary Festival journalist and commentator Madhumita Murgia. The book
held on 19-21 March 2024 witnessed the launch of a explores the impact of artificial intelligence on human
remarkable literary work – the English translation of the society. (Read the complete article)
Miscellaneous Current Affairs

• A groundbreaking archaeological discovery has been made event was a grand affair, with celebrations held in Kolkata,
in Chettimedu Pathur village, approximately 77 kilometres the Central Headquarters of GSI, and the Southern Region’s
from Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Researchers from the headquarters in Hyderabad. (Read the complete article)
Department of Ancient History and Archaeology at the • In a significant nod to India’s rich heritage of craftsmanship
University of Madras have unearthed a child burial site and artistry, the Cuttack Rupa Tarakasi, more widely
dating back to the Neolithic period, around 2500 BCE to known as Silver Filigree, has recently been awarded the
3000 BCE, offering new insights into ancient burial rites and Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical
cultural practices in the region. (Read the complete article) Indications Registry in Chennai. This recognition, sought by
• Researchers in Ecuador’s rainforest have uncovered a new the Odisha State Co-operative Handicrafts Corporation
species of anaconda, Eunectes Akiyama, which split from Limited and supported by the Department of Textile and
Handicrafts, Government of Odisha, places Cuttack’s Silver
its closest relatives 10 million years ago. Despite their
Filigree on the map as a unique and protected form of art.
genetic distinction, these anacondas are visually identical
to the previously known species, Eunectes murinus. (Read
• President Droupadi Murmu nominated author and
the complete article)
philanthropist Sudha Murty to the Rajya Sabha. Prime
• The Geological Survey of India (GSI) commemorated its Minister Narendra Modi announced this and congratulated
174th Foundation Day on March 4th, 2024, with zeal and Sudha Murty, saying her contribution to diverse fields has
enthusiasm resonating across all its offices nationwide. The been "immense and inspiring". (Read the complete article)
• Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & • The beautiful Dal Lake in Kashmir witnessed an exciting
Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, announced the event on March 18. Formula-4 car racing was held for the
establishment of North India’s first Government first time in the region. The sleek racing cars raced along
Homeopathic College in the Jasrota area of Kathua district, the Boulevard road near the lake, creating a thrilling
J&K. The project, funded centrally at Rs 80 crore, reflects a atmosphere. The Zabarwan Hills provided a stunning
significant stride in healthcare and education infrastructure backdrop for the event. (Read Complete Article)
development in the region. (Read Complete Article) • In a groundbreaking medical achievement, surgeons from
• Majuli, the largest river island in the world, has received Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston have performed
two prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tags from the the first pig-to-human kidney transplant. A 62-year-old
Indian government for its traditional crafts – Majuli mask man with end-stage renal disease received a new kidney
making and Majuli manuscript painting. (Read Complete from a genetically modified pig. (Read Complete Article)
Article) • The Chipko Movement originated in the Uttarakhand
• Sea6 Energy, a pioneer in the Blue Economy, has launched region of the Himalayas in early 1973. The name “Chipko”
the world’s first large-scale mechanized tropical seaweed means “to hug” in Hindi, referring to the practice of
farm off the coast of Lombok, Indonesia. The one-square- embracing trees to protect them from being cut down. The
Chipko movement, which began in Uttarakhand, a state in
kilometer seaweed farm is a significant milestone in
the Himalayas, in early 1973, marks its 50th anniversary.
establishing the scalability of sustainable tropical seaweed
cultivation for various industrial applications. (Read
• A 900-year-old Kannada inscription dating back to the
Complete Article)
Kalyana Chalukya dynasty has been discovered in a state
• Excavation sites worldwide yield artifacts and fossils crucial
of utter neglect at Gangapuram, a temple town in
for understanding history. In Nuremberg, Germany,
Jadcherla mandal, Mahabubnagar district. The rare
construction laborers stumbled upon an astonishing find
inscription was found lying uncared for on a tank bund near
while building a house: a vast number of human skeletons,
the Chowdamma temple. (Read the complete article)
indicating the presence of what may be Europe’s largest
• The world’s first-ever temple designed in the iconic Om
cemetery. Nearly a thousand skeletons have been shape has been inaugurated in the village of Jadan, Pali
unearthed so far, with estimates suggesting the total could district of Rajasthan. This architectural masterpiece,
surpass 1500. (Read Complete Article) spanning across 250 acres, is not only expected to attract
• The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) tourists but will also boast an impressive visual presence
has certified nearly 100 jails across the nation as ‘Eat Right visible from space. (Read the complete article)
Campus,’ a part of its broader Eat Right India movement. • Allu Arjun, the popular Telugu actor, has achieved a new
This initiative aims to ensure safe, healthy, and sustainable milestone in his career. He has been honoured with a wax
food practices within various institutional settings, statue at the renowned Madame Tussauds Museum in
including correctional facilities. (Read Complete Article) Dubai. (Read the complete article)
Obituaries Current Affairs

• Kapildev Prasad, a renowned artisan and Padma awardee • Sadi Mohammad, a legendary Rabindra Sangeet singer,
for his contributions to the handloom industry and the has passed away at the age of 70. His death has cast a grim
revival of Bababuti sarees, passed away in Basavanbigha shadow in the cultural sphere of the country. (Read
village, Bihar Sharif. His demise has left the local Complete Article)
community and handloom enthusiasts mourning the loss of
• The former member of the National Commission for
a true pioneer. (Read Complete Article)
• Paul Alexander, who spent much of his life in an iron lung Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and prominent
after contracting polio as a child, has passed away at the Buddhist Monk of Ladakh, popularly known as Lama
age of 78. Despite being paralyzed from the neck down, Lobzang, passed away this morning at his residence in New
Alexander’s resilience and determination led him to Delhi. He was 94 years old. (Read Complete Article)
become an inspirational figure, achieving milestones that • Lakshmi Narayanan Seshu, a beloved figure in the Tamil
defied his physical limitations. (Read Complete Article) entertainment industry, breathed his last on Tuesday,
• Admiral Laxminarayan Ramdas, the former Chief of Naval
March 26, 2024, at a private hospital in Chennai. The
Staff of the Indian Navy (1990-1993), breathed his last
peacefully at the age of 90 on March 15 morning, at the versatile actor, affectionately known as Lollu Sabha Seshu,
Military Hospital, Secunderabad, Telangana. (Read was 60 years old at the time of his unfortunate demise.
Complete Article) (Read the complete article)

• Louis Gossett Jr., the first Black man to win the Academy
Award for Best Supporting Actor, has sadly passed away at
the age of 87. His cousin, Neal L Gossett, confirmed his
demise on March 29, stating that he died at a rehabilitation
center in Santa Monica, California. (Read the complete
article)
• Daniel Kahneman, a psychologist who never studied
economics but pioneered the field of behavioural
economics, has passed away at the age of 90. Despite not
having formal training in economics, Kahneman’s
groundbreaking work exploring the psychology of decision-
making earned him the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences
in 2002. (Read the complete article)
Static Current Affairs

• DRDO founded: 1958; • Odisha Bird: Indian roller;
• DRDO Headquarters: DRDO Bhavan, New Delhi; • Odisha Flower: Asoka;
• DRDO Agency executive: : Sameer V. Kamat, Chairman, • Odisha Governor: Raghubar Das.
DRDO. • North East Small Finance Bank Ltd (Head Office) in
• Central Vigilance Commission Founded: February 1964; Hatigaon, Guwahati;
• Central Vigilance Commission HQ: New Delhi. • North East Small Finance Bank Ltd MD & CEO: Satish Kumar
• National Commission for Scheduled Castes Founded: 19 Kalra;
February 2004. • North East Small Finance Bank Ltd Established: October 17,
• Tamil Nadu Chief minister: M. K. Stalin; 2017.
• Tamil Nadu Capital: Chennai; • Indian Sugar & Bio-energy Manufacturers Association
• Tamil Nadu Governor: R. N. Ravi. (ISMA) HQ: New Delhi;
• Haryana Capital: Chandigarh; • Indian Sugar & Bio-energy Manufacturers Association
• Haryana Governor: Bandaru Dattatreya; (ISMA) Established: 1932.
• World Plumbing Council HQ: Zurich, Switzerland; • Google Founders: Larry Page, Sergey Brin;
• World Plumbing Council Founded: October 2009; • Google Parent organization: Alphabet Inc.;
• World Plumbing Council Head: Dave Viola. • Google CEO: Sundar Pichai (2 Oct 2015–);
• Madhya Pradesh Capital: Bhopal (Executive Branch); • Google Founded: 4 September 1998, Menlo Park,
• Madhya Pradesh Bird: Indian paradise flycatcher; California, United States.
• Madhya Pradesh Flower: White lily; • Seychelles Capital: Victoria
• Madhya Pradesh Formation: 26 January 1950. • Seychelles President: Wavel Ramkalawan
• Jharkhand Chief minister: Champai Soren; • Seychelles Currency: Seychelles Rupee
• Jharkhand Capital: Ranchi; • Election Commissioner of India HQ: Delhi
• Jharkhand Founded: 15 November 2000; • Election Commissioner of India Established: 25th January
• Jharkhand Bird: Koel; 1950.
• Jharkhand Flower: Palash. • WHO Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland;
• National Commission for Protection of Child Rights • WHO Head: Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus;
Founded: 2007; • WHO Founders: United States, Brazil, Mexico, France,
• National Commission for Protection of Child Rights United Kingdom;
Headquarters: New Delhi, India; • WHO Founded: 7 April 1948.
• National Commission for Protection of Child Rights • Tamil Nadu Chief minister: M. K. Stalin;
Chairman: Priyank Kanoongo. • Tamil Nadu Capital: Chennai;
• Managing Director & CEO of Maruti Suzuki India Limited: • Tamil Nadu Governor: R. N. Ravi.
Mr. Hisashi Takeuchi • Iran Capital: Tehran;
• Odisha Capital: Bhubaneswar; • Iran Official language: Persian;
• Odisha Chief Minister: Naveen Patnaik; • Iran President: Ebrahim Raisi.

• Tuvalu Capital: Funafuti; • 25th Chief Election Commissioner: Rajiv Kumar;
• Tuvalu Continent: Oceania; • Election Commission of India Founded: 25 January 1950.
• Tuvalu Official languages: Tuvaluan, English; • Kerala Capital: Thiruvananthapuram;
• Tuvalu Currencies: Australian Dollar, Tuvaluan dollar. • Kerala Chief minister: Pinarayi Vijayan;
• Kotak Mahindra Bank CEO: Ashok Vaswani (1 Jan 2024–); • Kerala Population: 3.46 crores (2018);
• Kotak Mahindra Bank Founder: Uday Kotak; • Kerala Districts: 14;
• Kotak Mahindra Bank Founded: 21 November 1985; • Kerala Fish: Green chromide;
• Kotak Mahindra Bank Headquarters: Mumbai. • Kerala Flower: Golden shower tree.
• SBI Chairperson: Dinesh Kumar Khara; • Kerala Chief minister: Pinarayi Vijayan;
• SBI Founded: 1 July 1955; • Kerala Capital: Thiruvananthapuram;
• SBI Headquarters: Mumbai. • Kerala Fish: Green chromide;
• Geological Survey of India Founded: 4 March 1851 • Kerala Flower: Golden shower tree.
• Geological Survey of India Founder: Thomas Oldham • Airbus Chief Executive Officer Guillaume Faury;
• Geological Survey of India Headquarters: Kolkata, West • Airbus Headquarters: Leiden, Netherlands;
Bengal, India • Airbus Founded: 10 July 2000.
• Geological Survey of India Formed: 4 March 1851; 172 • Jharkhand Capital: Ranchi;
years ago • Jharkhand Chief minister: Champai Soren;
• Geological Survey of India Government agency executive: • Jharkhand Founded: 15 November 2000;
Shri Janardan Prasad • Jharkhand Bird: Koel;
• Geological Survey of India Parent Government agency: • Jharkhand Flower: Palash.
Ministry of Mines
• World Economic Forum Chairperson: Børge Brende;
• Bihar Capital: Patna;
• World Economic Forum Founder: Klaus Schwab;
• Bihar Chief Minister: Nitish Kumar;
• World Economic Forum Headquarters: Cologny,
• Bihar Bird: House sparrow;
Switzerland;
• Bihar Flower: Marigold;
• World Economic Forum President: Børge Brende;
• Bihar Formation: 22 March 1912.
• World Economic Forum Founded: 24 January 1971.
• International Astronomical Union President: Debra
• International Solar Alliance Founders: Narendra Modi,
Elmegreen;
François Hollande;
• International Astronomical Union Headquarters: Paris,
• International Solar Alliance President: R. K. Singh;
France;
• International Solar Alliance Founded: 30 November 2015.
• International Astronomical Union Founded: 28 July 1919;
• UAE Capital: Abu Dhabi;
• International Astronomical Union General Secretary: Piero
• UAE Currency: United Arab Emirates Dirham;
Benvenuti.
• UAE Prime minister: Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
• BSF Founder: Khusro Faramurz Rustamji;
• IPS, DG CISF: Nina Singh;
• BSF Founded: 1 December 1965;
• Headquarters: New Delhi, India.
• BSF Director General: Nitin Agarwal, IPS.
• UNESCO Headquarters: Paris, France;
• France Capital: Paris;
• France President: Emmanuel Macron;
• France Prime minister: Gabriel Attal;
• France Official language: French.
• Himachal Pradesh Capitals: Shimla (Summer), Dharamshala
(Winter);
• Himachal Pradesh Chief minister: Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu;
• Himachal Pradesh Bird: Western tragopan;
• Himachal Pradesh Districts: 12;
• Himachal Pradesh Flower: Pink rhododendron;
• Himachal Pradesh High Court: Himachal Pradesh High
Court.
• Election Commission of India, Nirvachan Sadan, Ashoka
Road, New Delhi;

• UNESCO Founded: 16 November 1945, London, United • Nicaragua Continent: North America.
Kingdom; • Haryana Capital: Chandigarh;
• UNESCO Head: Audrey Azoulay; (Director-General). • Haryana Governor: Bandaru Dattatreya;
• France Capital: Paris; • Haryana Chief minister: Manohar Lal Khattar.
• France President: Emmanuel Macron; • NATO Secretary-General: Jens Stoltenberg;
• France Prime Minister: Gabriel Attal; • NATO Founded: 4 April 1949, Washington, D.C., United
• France Official language: French. States;
• International Solar Alliance President: R. K. Singh; • NATO Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium.
• International Solar Alliance Founders: Narendra Modi, • ICC Headquarters: Dubai, United Arab Emirates;
François Hollande; • ICC Founded: 15 June 1909;
• International Solar Alliance Founded: 30 November 2015. • ICC CEO: Geoff Allardice;
• Nepal Capital: Kathmandu; • ICC Chairman: Greg Barclay.
• Nepal Currency: Nepalese Rupee; • World Gold Council CEO: David Tait;
• Nepal Prime Minister: Pushpa Kamal Dahal; • World Gold Council President: Kelvin Dushnisky;
• President of Nepal: Mr Ram Chandra Paudel. • World Gold Council Founded: 1987;
• Reliance Industries Owner: Mukesh Ambani; • World Gold Council Headquarters: London, United
• Reliance Industries Founder: Dhirubhai Ambani; Kingdom.
• Reliance Industries President: Mukesh Ambani; • RBI Founded: 1 April 1935, Kolkata;
• Reliance Industries Founded: 1957, Maharashtra; • RBI Governor: Shaktikanta Das, IAS (retd.);
• Reliance Industries Headquarters: Mumbai. • RBI Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
• IAF Headquarters: New Delhi; • Bhutan Capital: Thimphu;
• IAF Founded: 8 October 1932, India; • Bhutan King: Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck;
• IAF Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari. • Bhutan Currencies: Bhutanese Ngultrum, Indian Rupee;
• Microsoft Founders: Bill Gates, Paul Allen; • Bhutan Official language: Dzongkha.
• Microsoft Headquarters: Redmond, Washington, United • Amul Founders: Verghese Kurien, Tribhuvandas Kishibhai
States; Patel;
• Microsoft Chairperson: Satya Nadella (Chairman and Chief • Amul Headquarters: Anand;
Executive Officer). • Amul Founded: 14 December 1946;
• SBM Bank India Founded: 1st December 2018; • Chairman of Amul: Shamalbhai B Patel.
• SBM Bank India Headquarters: Mumbai, India. • ISRO Founder: Vikram Sarabhai;
• NSDC Headquarters: New Delhi; • ISRO Headquarters: Bengaluru;
• NSDC Founded: 31 July 2008; • ISRO Founded: 15 August 1969;
• NSDC CEO: Mr. Ved Mani Tiwari. • ISRO Chairman: Sreedhara Somanath.
• Madhya Pradesh Capital: Bhopal; • International Astronomical Union President: Debra
• Madhya Pradesh Bird: Indian paradise flycatcher; Elmegreen;
• Madhya Pradesh Flower: White lily; • International Astronomical Union Headquarters: Paris,
• Madhya Pradesh Formation: 26 January 1950; France;
• Madhya Pradesh CM: Mohan Yadav; • International Astronomical Union Founded: 28 July 1919;
• Madhya Pradesh Governor: Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel. • International Astronomical Union General Secretary: Piero
• DRDO Date founded: 1958 Benvenuti.
• Headquarters: DRDO Bhavan, New Delhi • Archaeological Survey of India Director General: Yadubir
• Agency executive: : Sameer V. Kamat, Chairman, DRDO; Singh Rawat;
• Ghana Capital: Accra; • Archaeological Survey of India Headquarters: New Delhi,
• Ghana Currency: Ghanaian Cedi; India;
• Ghana President: Nana Akufo-Addo. • Archaeological Survey of India Established: 1861.
• Zoological Survey of India Headquarters: Kolkata; • Saudi Arabia Capital: Riyadh
• Zoological Survey of India Founded: 1 July 1916; • Saudi Arabia King: Salman of Saudi Arabia
• Zoological Survey of India Director: Dr. Dhriti Banerjee; • Saudi Arabia Currency: Saudi Riyal
• Zoological Survey of India Founder: Government of India. • Senegal Capital: Dakar
• Nicaragua Capital: Managua; • Senegal President: Macky Sall
• Nicaragua Currency: Nicaraguan Córdoba; • Senegal Currency: West African CFA franc
• Nicaragua President: Daniel Ortega; • Senegal Official language: French

Bharat Ratna Winners List from 1954 to 2024
Bharat Ratna Award Recipients Year
MS Swaminathan (Father of Green Revolution) Bharat Ratna Winners 2024
Chaudhary Charan Singh (Former Prime Minister of India) Bharat Ratna Winners 2024
PV Narasimha Rao (Former Prime Minister of India) Bharat Ratna Winners 2024
Lal Krishna Advani (Former Minister of Home Affairs, Deputy Prime Minister of India) Bharat Ratna Winners 2024
Karpoori Thakur ( Former Chief Minister) - Bihar Bharat Ratna Winners 2024
Award not announced Bharat Ratna Winners 2023
Nanaji Deshmukh (social activist) - Maharashtra
Bhupen Hazarika (playback singer, lyricist, musician, poet, and film-maker) - Assam Bharat Ratna Winners 2019
Pranab Mukherjee (politician) - West Bengal
Atal Bihari Vajpayee (politician) - Madhya Pradesh
Bharat Ratna Award List 2015
Madan Mohan Malaviya (Scholar and educational reformer) - Uttar Pradesh
Sachin Tendulkar (cricketer) - Maharashtra
Bharat Ratna Winners List 2014
CNR Rao (chemist and professor) - Karnataka
Bhimsen Joshi (Hindustani classical vocalist) - Karnataka Bharat Ratna Winners 2009
Bismillah Khan (Hindustani classical shehnai player) - Uttar Pradesh
Bharat Ratna Award List 2001
Lata Mangeshkar (playback singer) - Maharashtra
Ravi Shankar (sitar player) - Uttar Pradesh
Gopinath Bordoloi (Independence activist) - Assam
Bharat Ratna Winners List 1999
Amartya Sen (economist) - West Bengal
Jayaprakash Narayan (Independence activist, social reformer) - Bihar
Chidambaram Subramaniam (Independence activist) - Tamil Nadu
Bharat Ratna Winners 1998
MS Subbulakshmi (Carnatic classical vocalist) - Tamil Nadu
A P J Abdul Kalam (Aerospace and defence scientist) - Tamil Nadu
Aruna Asaf Ali (Independence activist) - West Bengal Bharat Ratna Award List 1997
Gulzarilal Nanda (Independence activist) - Punjab
Satyajit Ray (Filmmaker) - West Bengal
JRD Tata (Industrialist) - Maharashtra Bharat Ratna Winners 1992
Abdul Kalam Azad (Independence activist) - West Bengal
Morarji Desai (Independence activist) - Gujarat
Sadar Vallabhbhai Patel (Independence activist) - Gujarat Bharat Ratna Winners List 1991
Rajiv Gandhi (politician) - Uttar Pradesh
Nelson Mandela (anti-apartheid activist) - South Africa
B R Ambedkar (Social reformer) - Maharashtra

Bharat Ratna Award Recipients Year
M G Ramachandran (actor turned politician) - Tamil Nadu Bharat Ratna Winners 1988
Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan (Independence activist) - Pakistan Bharat Ratna Award List 1987
Vinoba Bhave (Independence activist, social reformer) - Maharashtra Bharat Ratna Winners List 1983
Mother Teresa (Catholic nun) - West Bengal Bharat Ratna Award List 1980
K Kamaraj (politician) - Tamil Nadu Bharat Ratna winners 1976
V V Giri (Independence activist) - Odisha Bharat Ratna Award List 1975
Indira Gandhi (politician) - Uttar Pradesh Bharat Ratna Award List 1971
Lal Bahadur Shastri (Independence activist) - Uttar Pradesh Bharat Ratna Winners List 1966
Pandurang Vaman Kane (Indologist and Sanskrit scholar) - Maharashtra
Zakir Husain (Independence activist and education philosopher) - Andhra Pradesh
Rajendra Prasad (Independence activist, lawyer, statesman, and scholar) - Bihar Bharat Ratna Award List 1962
Purushottam Das Tandon (Independence activist) - Uttar Pradesh
Bidhan Chandra Roy (physician, political leader, philanthropist, educationist, and social Bharat Ratna Winners 1961
worker) - West Bengal
Dhondo Keshav Karve (Social reformer and educator) - Maharashtra Bharat Ratna Winners List 1958
Govind Ballabh Pant (Independence activist) - Uttarakhand Bharat Ratna Award List 1957
Jawahar Lal Nehru (Independence activist and author) - Uttar Pradesh
M Visvesvaraya (Civil engineer, statesman, and Diwan of Mysore) - Karnataka Bharat Ratna Winners 1955
Bhagwan Das (Independence activist, philosopher, and educationist) - Uttar Pradesh
CV Raman (physicist) - Tamil Nadu
Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (philosopher and politician) - Tamil Nadu Bharat Ratna Award List 1954
C Rajagopalachari (statesman, writer, lawyer, and independence activist) - Tamil Nadu

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